Addington Valley Academy

Addington Valley Academy is a special free school for children and young people aged 2 to 19 in Croydon. The academy supports pupils with autism, learning difficulties and associated communication, cognitive, sensory, emotional and behavioural needs. Its ethos is nurturing, person-centred and aspirational, with a strong commitment to helping every learner participate, achieve and build the skills needed for greater independence.

Opened in 2020, the academy benefits from a purpose-designed learning environment tailored to its pupils’ complex and varied needs. Specialist facilities include sensory gardens, indoor sensory rooms, a soft-play area and a large cookery room. Its broad provision extends from early years through to post-16 education, enabling staff to support progression across every developmental stage. The academy also values outdoor learning, enrichment and close partnership working with families, support professionals and therapeutic teams.

Working at Addington Valley Academy means joining a collaborative specialist community within Orchard Hill College and Academy Trust, which serves learners across London, Surrey and Sussex. Staff can access trust-wide progression pathways, professional development and the Teachers’ Pension Scheme, alongside wellbeing support, salary sacrifice programmes, enhanced parental leave and employee discounts. Colleagues work together to create an ambitious, safe and supportive environment in which pupils and staff can thrive.