Interested in joining our special school community?
To learn more about NASS membership and how we support special schools, download our NASS membership information pack below. You can also explore our 2024 Impact Report to see the difference we’ve made over the past year for our diverse community of non-maintained special schools, independent special schools, and special academies.
If you have any questions or would like to apply to become a NASS member, please contact Jenny Hayward, NASS Operations Officer.
> Download our 2024 impact report
Here are just some of the ways we support our members
Expert guidance and lobbying influence
We offer guidance and support on issues affecting you. As the key sector body, recognised by the Department for Education and Ofsted, we are a powerful voice and push for change on behalf of you and all our members.
Staying informed
Our fortnightly newsletters, NASS News and NASS Events, keep you informed on latest guidance, sector news, training and events. You can add as many of your staff to the distribution list as you like. You will also receive briefings on all major government reforms and announcements.
Peer networking
We hold termly Special Interest Groups that create opportunities for you to network with your peers, discuss challenges, hear from guest speakers, and share experiences and best practices. Our groups include: Heads of Care, HR & Finance, Teaching & Learning, Speech & Language Therapy and Heads, Principals & CEOs,.
Specialist training and webinars
We organise a wide range of tailored training and learning opportunities for special schools, helping your staff learn more about key topics and stay up-to-date on current guidance. Visit our events page to see our latest training and events.
Supporting your recruitment
Our School Jobs page is one of the most frequently visited sections on our website and, as a NASS member, we can list your jobs free of charge.
Bringing the NASS community together
We unite the NASS community through two annual conferences – NASS Connect, our summer online conference, and NASS Conference which takes place in October. Both offer opportunities for joint learning, sector updates and valuable networking.
Leadership programmes
We help you develop and become centres of excellence through bespoke leadership programmes for special schools. You can view our current Development Programmes here. We also have a strong network of NASS School Improvement Partners that can offer their support to other NASS members.
Developing knowledge
We invest in initiatives that will provide long-term value for you. In 2023 we commissioned a report on the cost and value of meeting needs for children and young people with SEND. In the past year we have also sought legal advice to give members clarity on the setting and payment of fees. Further information can be found on our Publications page.
Highlighting and celebrating excellence
We take pride in sharing your excellence and best practice. We do this by recognising your work at our annual NASS Awards and using our social media channels (LinkedIn, X and BlueSky) and website to highlight the difference you are making throughout the year.
Piloting innovation
We look for innovative ways to tackle issues that affect you by collaborating with partners. We give you the opportunity to be part of this research. in 2025 we are running an AI pilot programme for special schools involving 11 NASS members as well as a programme that addresses key challenges of attrition, retention and recruitment in schools.
Special schools map
NASS member schools’ details are included on a searchable map on our website. This is widely used by parents and local authorities seeking potential placements and now features on some Local Offers.