Our Story

Apex Specialist Education began with a shared conviction: every child has potential, and every child deserves an education that recognises, nurtures and unlocks it — even when mainstream pathways have broken down.

For years before founding Apex, our leaders worked at the heart of specialist and alternative provision. We saw the reality faced by too many young people: pupils who were bright, capable and full of promise, yet misunderstood or unsupported in environments not built for their needs. We understood their barriers, but more importantly, we saw their strengths. That experience shaped our vision, our commitment, and the relentless drive behind Apex.

In 2024, we opened our first independent special school, Healey Learning Centre, built deliberately and carefully around a trauma-informed, relationship-centred ethos. Within the first year, Healey was recognised by Ofsted as Good overall, with Outstanding Personal Development — a reflection of our high standards, passionate staff and the impact of The Apex Way.

Support • Inspire • Flourish • Succeed
These four pillars guide everything we do, from classroom practice to leadership culture.

As demand for high-quality specialist provision grew, we expanded with two small, nurturing learning centres in Altrincham and Stockport, allowing us to support more young people across Greater Manchester with flexible, personalised pathways. Each centre carries the same heartbeat: a belief that with the right support and the right relationships, every child can reconnect, rebuild and move forward with confidence.

Today, Apex continues to grow with purpose — not to become bigger, but to ensure more young people access the education, care and opportunities they deserve. Our story is rooted in passion, expertise and unwavering commitment.

And we’re still only at the beginning.