National Association of Independent & Non-Maintained Special Schools

Welcome to NASS

The National Association of Special Schools

We represent our membership of non-local authority maintained special schools in England and Wales, delivering support, recognition and national representation of their important work.

We work in close partnership with our members, other SEND organisations, central and local government, providing insight, information and opinion to help shape the future of special education in our sector.

NASS champions high-quality, specialist provision within a modern, inclusive education service that respects the choices of children, their families, and carers. We currently represent and support more than 450 special schools across England and Wales, encompassing non-maintained special schools, independent special schools, special academies and multi-academy trusts with special schools.

NASS Conference 2025

Thursday 2nd & Friday 3rd October 2025

Join us in Bristol for our annual two-day conference, bringing our special schools community together for collaborative learning, industry updates, and valuable networking.

Book your place

Read our latest news

Managing Serial, Unreasonable and Vexatious Complaints in Schools

This week, Natalie Wargent from NASS Partner VWV presented a session on managing Serial, Unreasonable and Vexatious Complaints in Schools. As complaints in schools grow in volume and complexity, managing serial, unreasonable, and vexatious complaints becomes increasingly challenging for staff. These complaints can be emotionally draining, time-consuming, and disruptive. However, with the right approach, school leaders can handle even the most persistent and difficult complainants.

Consistency in unpredictable times: Why routine matters for learners with autism

In this guest blog, NASS Partner LuxAI shares how special schools are using innovative assistive technology to create calm, predictable, and engaging learning environments for autistic learners.