our history
Recent data paints a troubling picture: despite growing awareness of mental health and inclusion, school exclusions are rising. Autumn 2023/24 saw a 34% increase in permanent exclusions and a 40% rise in suspensions compared to the same term the previous year. Many of the affected students have additional needs or face complex challenges. These young people have a right to education, yet many find themselves on the margins—unsupported and unheard.
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It is increasingly difficult to find small, calm, therapeutic learning environments where students who struggle to access mainstream education can truly thrive. School refusal—an anxiety-related condition—affects between 1–5% of the UK population. In January 2025, over 638,700 children and young people held EHC Plans—an increase of 10.8% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the total number of pupils receiving SEN support has risen to 1.7 million, a 5.6% increase since 2024 .
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Even years later the long-term impact of the Covid19 pandemic continues to unfold: many students—often bright and full of promise—struggle in mainstream settings, and without tailored support, their confidence, progress, and future opportunities decline. In 2023, only 30.4% of pupils with SEND achieved a Grade 4 or above in English and Maths GCSE, compared to 72.1% of their non-SEND peers
Arise Education exists to change that story.
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We seek to provide all children and young people with a place where they can access compassionate education, and thrive. We particularly exist for those with at risk of exclusion, those experiencing emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA), students with attachment difficulties, and those with various neurodiversities. We offer calm, nurturing settings where care, flexibility and strong relationships are at the heart of learning.
Timeline
2024
In Spring we received an 'Outstanding' rating from Ofsted, showcasing our dedication to transforming lives through care and education.
Later in the year we reached a major milestone by moving into our first permanent home—Little Pinum, a 26-acre sanctuary near Priors Marston, providing a peaceful setting for therapeutic learning.
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2024 also saw the launch of our first Primary Alternative Provision centre, pioneering a new and much needed response to the growing need for support for primary aged children and their schools.
2014
We opened our first centre in Whitnash under Rev. Brian Nash, our Chair of Governors and Trustees. Over the years that followed, our team grew and we launched and ran multiple alternative provision centres across Warwickshire, and built a solid reputation with local authorities as a trusted partner.
Amanda Woodward took on the role of Head Teacher in 2019, and by 2020, we successfully registered as an Independent School.
2019
2021
In 2021, we achieved our first Ofsted rating of 'Good,' reflecting the commitment of our staff and the remarkable progress made by our learners.
Charly Skoppek became the Head Teacher, bringing extensive experience from leading our Rugby site since 2017 and serving as Deputy Principal.
2022
With a permanent home, in 2025 we officially became an exam centre, providing students with a safe and familiar environment for their exams, reducing stress.
ARISE EDUCATION
In July 2025, VLC became Arise Education—a name that better reflects who we are and what we stand for. Arise Education speaks to hope, strength, and new beginnings. It represents our belief that every young person has the right to rise above circumstance, access education, and move forward with dignity and purpose. It marks a renewed commitment to helping every child find their voice, their place, and their future.
At Arise Education, we walk alongside our students and their families with compassion, creativity, and an unwavering belief that every young person deserves a future filled with hope, dignity, and possibility.