Special free school · Essex

The Hawthorns School

Special
Ages 7–16

Term dates

Special free schools can set their own term dates. Many follow Essex council's dates, shown below as a guide, but check with the school, especially for INSET days.

2026/27

2027/28

See Essex's full dates

Admissions

Places at special schools are usually arranged through an education, health and care (EHC) plan, agreed with the council.

How EHC plans work on GOV.UK

About and location

Type: Special free school
Phase: Special
Ages: 7–16
Pupils: 69 (capacity 70)
Gender: Mixed
Academy trust: SEAX TRUST
Admissions: Non-selective
Phone: 01245207607
Address: Thornhurst Road, Chelmsford, CM1 2XT
Website: thehawthornsschool.com

Official school record, including Ofsted reports

School details from the Department for Education's register of schools (Open Government Licence). Report a correction.