8th May, 2026

Phoenix Bay to open second school in Plymouth's iconic Pounds House

"To say it is an outstanding school still would not be giving it enough credit."  Those are the words of just one parent whose child attends Phoenix Bay School.

The team behind the school, which opened its doors in 2021 in Newton Abbot, is now hoping to open a second school in Plymouth, in the beautifully restored Pounds House in Central Park. The move would see the Grade II listed 19th-century villa - which has been disused and in need of restoration - transformed into a vibrant learning environment, establishing a non-residential SEND school within its walls.

The Plymouth site is planned to open in September, offering up to 40 places across primary and secondary age groups. Building on the success of its Newton Abbot campus - which holds a Good Ofsted rating and was recently a finalist for School of the Year at the National School Awards - the new school will mirror Phoenix Bay's signature small-group, trauma-informed model.



And Ross Banks, the headteacher behind the Phoenix Bay vision and ethos, couldn't be more thrilled to be opening a school in his home city.

"I believe that opening Phoenix Bay Park really fits in with Plymouth's inclusion strategy and the Belonging Framework. We believe that if you move out of mainstream, that shouldn't mean that's it for the rest of your education," said Ross, who has been working in education for 23 years.

"A big part of our work is getting our students to a point where they can return to mainstream education and absolutely fulfil their potential."

So how would he describe the ethos that has led to Phoenix Bay's success at its first south Devon site?
"We are trauma-informed and that's not something we simply pay lip service to - it is the basis of everything we do. Understanding our learners to provide therapeutic education and to support them to lead increasingly independent lives so they can thrive as adults."

The team will be looking to replicate the same special atmosphere in their second school, an atmosphere best summed up in the words of a current student:

"Everything works at Phoenix Bay - the way it is set up, rooms, staff, not too many people so I'm not distracted. The staff are nice and they understand me."

"Small class sizes and a high staff-to-student ratio ensures that individuality is at the heart of everything we do," said Ross. "Students are encouraged to take ownership of their education with guidance to identify and develop their talents and skills."

The team does this through bespoke learning pathways, including tailored curriculums with vocational routes such as barbering, carpentry, and digital media.

One parent, Claire Medworth, describes it as "the gentle but persistent way" that learning is approached at Phoenix Bay. "It is really working and we really are very grateful!" she added.

The restoration of Pounds House has been a significant undertaking, led by main contractor KK Controls and Equipment, working alongside DH Decorators, Shopfitting by SWS, RJM Properties, C&H Tree Surgery Services, and Abacus Drainage. With huge support from Gareth Forrest from Listers Property Consultants, who have been involved throughout the project,. The feeling shared by many of those connected to it: "We have all become quite attached to this project. We really do hope that helping to provide a great space for the pupils and staff will go a small way in helping this become a great success for you all."

Ross himself is equally moved by the building that will house Plymouth's new school.

"I really love the idea of our students learning in such an iconic building as Pounds House - somewhere inextricably linked to so many people in the city. A whole new generation will be getting to create a new set of memories connected to this wonderful place. I can't think of anything more fitting for this building."

PHOENIX BAY;

https://youtu.be/37hWQQaGzoQ?si=e1F7E7G8dXG5KLde