10-Year Anniversary

A Decade of Purpose: Principal Denise’s Vision for Transforming Futures at the Beacon of Light School

Ten years ago, Denise, now Principal of the Beacon of Light School, was given a powerful mission: to open a school for pupils who couldn’t stay in mainstream education, a place where every young person would be seen, supported and given the best possible chance to succeed.

She was the right person for the job.

From the very beginning, Denise brought a deeply personal approach to leadership. She made it her priority to know every pupil as an individual, their strengths, their challenges, their hopes - and to guide them toward a path that matched their potential. Her belief in tailored support, high expectations and unwavering care became the foundation of the school’s ethos.

Over the past decade, the Beacon of Light School has grown from a bold idea into a thriving, inclusive community. Many of the original team who helped Denise open the school are still by her side today, joined by new colleagues who share the same commitment to transforming lives. Together, they’ve built a school where innovation meets compassion, where pupils are empowered to reimagine their futures and where success is defined not by where you start but by how far you’re supported to go.

To celebrate a decade of Beacon of Light School, five members of the original team look back on the journey so far, sharing how the school has grown, the impact it’s had on students and the proudest moments from the past 10 years.

From student success stories to the power of practical, real-world learning, this video captures what makes Beacon of Light such a special place.

A Decade of Impact: One Milestone at a Time

Over the past ten years, the Beacon of Light School has been a place of transformation.

There are far too many individual success stories to count, each one a testament to the power of personalised support and belief in every pupil’s potential. But below, we invite you to join us in celebrating one standout achievement from each year of our journey so far.

Here’s to a decade of progress and to the many milestones still to come.

Joining a Like-Minded Trust: A New Chapter for the Beacon of Light School

In 2023, the Beacon of Light School proudly joined the Laidlaw Schools Trust, a decision rooted in shared values, mutual respect and a clear vision for inclusive education.

The alignment was unmistakable. LST’s commitment to allowing each Academy to retain its unique personality resonated deeply with the Beacon of Light team. The Trust understands that one size doesn’t fit all, especially when working with pupils who need tailored support, creative approaches and a school culture built around belonging.

This partnership has already proven to be mutually enriching. The Beacon of Light staff bring deep expertise in behavioural management and best practice for re-engaging pupils with education. Their work ensures that every child builds a positive relationship with learning, one that sets them up to thrive well beyond the classroom.

At LST, a one-Trust approach encourages collaboration and the sharing of expertise across Academies. That spirit is alive and well here. The Beacon of Light team continues to contribute valuable insights, while also benefiting from the wider network of support, innovation and professional development that the Trust provides.

Together, we’re building something powerful: a community where every pupil is known, every staff member is valued and every school is empowered to make a lasting difference.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for the Beacon of Light School

The Beacon of Light School continues to provide a supportive, inclusive environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive, building on ten years of achievement, innovation and unwavering dedication.

As the school looks to the future, one thing is clear: the next chapter will be just as ambitious. When staff were interviewed about their hopes for the Beacon’s future, every single one expressed a desire to see the school grow, to reach more pupils, to expand its impact and to continue transforming lives through extraordinary education.

What stood out most in these conversations was the depth of care. Beacon staff don’t just teach, they champion, nurture and believe in every pupil. Their commitment to building strong relationships and tailoring support to each individual is the heartbeat of the school.

With this passionate team, a clear vision and the backing of the Laidlaw Schools Trust, the Beacon of Light School is poised to shine even brighter. Watch this space, the next decade promises incredible stories, bold steps and life-changing opportunities.