Birtley House Independent School is a mixed independent day special school. The school provides for pupils who have moderate and sometimes complex SEN and/or disabilities. Pupils’ needs vary but can include specific or general learning difficulties, social and communication difficulties, language and communication needs and emotional, attachment and anxiety disorders. The majority of pupils have an education, health and care plan. Pupils are referred to the school by four local authorities and by a number of independent schools. Pupils join the school at different times during the school year and at different ages. Their length of stay in the school varies according to their individual needs. The Inspection report: Birtley House Independent School, 9–11 May 2018 Page 8 of 11 number of pupils on roll has increased considerably since the previous inspection. Therapists provide specialist support each week. Approximately half of the therapy is provided by the National Health Service and half by private companies. The school was previously inspected in March 2014. The school does not use alternative provision. Pupils are taught English and mathematics in the mornings in ability groups of mixed ages. They are taught in mixed-ability and mixed-age groups in the afternoons.