National Association of Independent & Non-Maintained Special Schools

Welcome to NASS

The National Association of Special Schools

NASS is the membership association for special schools in England and Wales. We provide support, advice, information, events, training and a strong national voice.

We’re a growing community of more than 460 schools and welcome every type of special school – independent, special academies, multi-academy trusts with special schools, non-maintained, and maintained special schools.

We work in close partnership with our members, other SEND organisations, and with central and local government, providing insight, information and influence to help shape the future of special education. NASS champions high-quality, specialist provision within a modern, inclusive education system that respects the choices of children, young people and their families.

Read our latest news

All we want for Christmas are SEND Reforms...but what happens if they turn out to be a foot spa rather than a spaceship?

With the long-awaited Schools White Paper on the horizon, hopes are high — but so is the risk of disappointment. Drawing on the humour of a festive metaphor, NASS CEO Claire Dorer OBE reflects on what happens if we don't quite get what we want.

Cross-generational inclusion and visibility in the community through coproduction

In our second feature on this year’s finalists and winners, we shine a spotlight on Orchard Education. Over the past two years, Orchard Education's learners and local care home residents have built meaningful connections - reading stories, sharing crafts, teaching knitting, exploring sensory toys and much more.