Chances Educational Support Services
Dawlish, Devon · EX7 0AF
Chances Educational Support Services is a small, alternative day school in Dawlish, Devon, designed to support young people who may not thrive in traditional mainstream settings. With just 18 pupils, it offers a highly personalised approach centred on the school values of Resilience, Respect, and Opportunity. The school works closely with partner schools and provides both onsite education and outreach services, positioning itself as a therapeutic and supportive educational environment.
- →Extremely small cohort (18 pupils) enabling bespoke pastoral and academic support
- →Alternative education ethos suited to young people struggling in mainstream provision
- →Strong focus on emotional wellbeing, safeguarding, and student voice alongside academics
Who thrives here
Young people aged 11–16+ who have experienced difficulties in mainstream schools, including those with unmet SEND needs, anxiety, behavioural challenges, or who benefit from lower-pressure, relationship-based learning environments. Pupils who respond well to small group teaching and consistent, nurturing adult contact.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Red Rock, Sandy Lane
Dawlish, Devon
EX7 0AF
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
How do you get into Chances Educational Support Services?
Chances Educational Support Services admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
Is Chances Educational Support Services a boarding school?
Chances Educational Support Services is a day school in Dawlish and does not offer boarding.
What is Chances Educational Support Services's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated Chances Educational Support Services “Good” (2024).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Highly personalised, relationship-based approach enabling breakthroughs for struggling learners
✓Small size and therapeutic ethos reduce anxiety and rebuild confidence in young people
✓Strong safeguarding culture and genuine commitment to student voice and pastoral care
✓Flexibility to tailor curriculum and support to individual need rather than one-size-fits-all model
Common concerns
!Very small pupil cohort (18) limits peer social diversity and breadth of friendship groups
!Limited evidence of academic stretch or extended learning opportunities beyond bespoke support
!No Ofsted inspection yet completed; long-term outcomes and Sixth Form provision unclear
!Isolation from mainstream peer group may present challenge for reintegration or transition to larger settings