Welcome to the William Henry Smith Foundation. We provide exceptional education and care to children and young adults who need it the most.

Welcome

As CEO and Executive Principal of the William Henry Smith Foundation, encompassing William Henry Smith School & Sixth Form, William Henry Smith Specialist College, and William Henry Smith Therapeutic Children’s Home, I am deeply committed to transforming the lives of children and young adults. Our Foundation is a vibrant, multi-site community delivering high-quality education, care, health, and therapeutic support.

Everything we do is rooted in strong relationships and a trauma-informed approach. We look beyond presenting behaviours, prioritising safety, trust, compassion, and emotional wellbeing so that every child and young adult feels understood, valued, and able to flourish.

Sue Ackroyd

CEO / Executive Principal

Foundation

About us

The William Henry Smith (WHS) Foundation exists to improve outcomes for children and young people who experience social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges, providing outstanding boys-only provision through high-quality working, living and learning environments.

We are a charitable, non-profit foundation dedicated to making a meaningful difference.

Foundation

Our Approach

At the heart of our work is a holistic, personalised approach that recognises each students strengths, needs and aspirations. Through tailored support and nurturing learning environments, the Foundation enriches the lives of children and young adults, while also supporting their families, its people and the wider community.

This approach ensures that everyone feels safe, valued and a deep sense of belonging.

Working closely with Local Authorities, partners, schools and community organisations, we deliver outstanding education, care and therapeutic services that create lasting and meaningful impact.

With a strong commitment to excellence, inclusion and wellbeing, the Foundation continues to champion positive change.

Our Impact

Foundation

What We Offer

The Foundation consists of the William Henry Smith School & Sixth Form, William Henry Smith Specialist College, a Therapeutic Children’s Home and a range of Specialist Services. Each located within a 5 mile radius of each other in West Yorkshire, in between Huddersfield and Halifax. Each service is delivered through a psychologically and trauma-informed, relationship-based approach.

School & Sixth Form

An outstanding day and residential special school for boys aged 5–19 with SEMH needs. The School provides a safe, structured environment where pupils develop a strong sense of belonging and are supported to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. High expectations, personalised support and strong partnerships ensure every young person is empowered to overcome barriers and prepare confidently for the future.

Specialist College

Providing a safe, structured and nurturing environment where young people aged 16 – 25 can develop a strong sense of belonging and are supported to achieve meaningful academic, vocational and personal outcomes. Through personalised pathways, high expectations, the College prepares students for adulthood, further education, employment and independent living.

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Therapeutic Children’s Home

Our Children’s Home provides a safe, nurturing, psychologically and trauma-informed residential environment for children and young adults with complex social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. Grounded in strong, trusting relationships, the home offers personalised therapeutic care that promotes stability, belonging and emotional wellbeing.