We are excited to welcome learners to Horizons Academy from January 2026. All prospective learners due to join Horizons Academy will have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). These places are allocated through the Integrated Children’s Disability Service (ICDS) at Nottinghamshire County Council.
Q: Can my child attend Horizons Academy?
A: As with all special schools, children admitted to Horizons Academy will have either a Statement of Special Educational Need or an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHC) that names the special school. Before an EHC plan is issued, the child or young person will have undergone formal assessment.
After this multi-professional assessment, parents will receive a plan describing the child’s or young person’s special educational needs, and the various elements of special educational, health and social care provision required.
Q: My child has an EHCP. How do I apply to Horizons Academy?
A: Special school places are allocated through the Integrated Children’s Disability Service (ICDS) at Nottinghamshire County Council. When considering a parent’s preference, the local authority will need to be sure that the academy named by the parent can meet the pupil’s special educational needs, and that the placement is consistent with the provision of suitable education to other children and young people already at the school. The LA also needs to be sure that the placement is compatible with the efficient use of available resources.
Before reaching its final decision on admission to a special school, the LA will consult with the principal of the special school to ensure that all needs can be met. Information on the assessment and EHC process and how parents can be supported within it is available from the LA or by contacting the academy. For further information regarding the admissions process to special schools, parents should contact the local authority admissions team
Q: What is the ICDS consultation process?
A: The ICDS consultation process happens in four stages.
Stage one
ICDS will consult with us to enquire about places and suitability. If your child’s needs can be met, ICDS will direct us to carry out a second stage consultation.
Second stage
We will contact families, as well as your child’s current placement, if applicable, to arrange a visit to meet your child and get to know more about them.
Third stage
The academy will let ICDS know whether your child’s needs can be met and whether we have space in an appropriate class.
Final stage
ICDS will confirm if your child has been successful in securing a place.