our history
For over 25 years, TCES has held the unwavering commitment to the most complex and vulnerable children across the UK, many of whom have experienced extreme
childhood trauma or have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Founded in 1999
Founded as a social care company in 1999, TCES has evolved significantly over the past quarter-century. We have transitioned into a specialist provider of therapeutic education for children & young people with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and/ or an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). From our beginnings as an alternative education service provider, we have grown to become one of the largest SEND independent schools providers in London. After 25 years we remain a family-owned Social Enterprise with a clear social mission.
Therapeutic Education
We Never Give Up, We Never Exclude
Since 1999, we have upheld a firm commitment to never permanently exclude any child. Not one. This moral philosophy ensures that both our children and young people, and their families receive unwavering support.
National Online School
In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognised the unique struggles faced by students with Emotionally Based School Avoidance. This understanding prompted us to launch our sister company National Online School, which offers the same high-quality therapeutic education as our physical schools to children and young people worldwide. In 2024, we were accredited by the Department for Education (DfE) as the first online special school in the country.
Great Minds Therapy & Training
As our expertise grew, so did our commitment to sharing what works. This led to the development of Great Minds, part of the TCES Group. Drawing on decades of experience supporting vulnerable young people with SEND, it offers professional development and accredited qualifications in therapeutic education for those working across education, health, and care. Led by experienced therapists, the training equips professionals with practical, evidence-based approaches that make a lasting difference to children’s lives.
Alongside this, Great Minds Therapy was established as a specialist online therapy service for SEND children aged 9–25. Offering personalised one-to-one sessions, it provides tailored therapeutic support either as part of our National Online School package or as an independently commissioned service.
Coming Soon September 26
- TCES North West London School – College
- TCES North West London – Outreach
- TCES North West London School – Nurture Prep
Over the years, we have also developed bespoke support services tailored to meet the specific needs of Local Authorities and their communities. Our primary focus has always been and will continue to be, to provide comprehensive support entirely centred around the needs of each child.