National Star

National Star

National Star is a prominent UK-based charity and provider of specialist further education, residential services, and personal development for young people with complex physical and learning disabilities and acquired brain injuries. Based in Gloucestershire, the organisation operates nationally, helping students and residents gain the skills and confidence needed to live as independently as possible.

Who They Are

National Star positions itself as an advocate for a world where people with disabilities are equal and active citizens. They are recognised for their expertise in supporting individuals with high-dependency needs, including those who use alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) and complex mobility equipment.

A defining feature of the organisation is its multi-disciplinary approach. They integrate education, therapy, and care into a single, cohesive environment. In 2026, they remain a leader in the specialist education sector, known for their state-of-the-art campus at Ullenwood, which includes specialist technology labs, aquatic therapy pools, and accessible creative arts spaces.

The organisation prides itself on its charitable status; as a registered charity, they launch frequent national campaigns to raise aspirations and challenge stereotypes, ensuring that disability is never seen as a barrier to achievement.

What They Do

Specialist Further Education & Residential Living

The core of their service is the provision of a "discovery-led" curriculum tailored to each student's long-term goals:

• Further Education: Providing individualised learning programmes that focus on communication, life skills, vocational training, and creative arts.
• Residential Services: Offering a range of high-standard accommodation, from small bungalows to independent-training flats, with 24/7 clinical and care support.
• Therapeutic Support: Integrating physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and emotional wellbeing into the daily routine.
• Long-term Living: Providing permanent residential care for adults with complex disabilities who require a high level of specialist support in a community setting.

Approach & Values

National Star focuses on Independence, Inclusion, and Innovation.

They prioritise Student-Led Goals, meaning every care plan and educational target is co-created with the young person to reflect their personal ambitions. Their approach is Holistic; they use "Star Technology" to find innovative ways for students to control their environment, access learning, and express themselves.

A strong emphasis is placed on "Preparation for Adulthood," ensuring that students have the practical skills and confidence to transition into supported living or employment when they leave the college.

Industry Role

National Star acts as a strategic national resource for specialist education and care.

As a high-acuity provider, they play a vital role in supporting Local Authorities and the NHS by offering specialist placements for individuals whose needs cannot be met in mainstream or local SEN settings. They act as a centre of excellence, frequently sharing research and best practices with other providers across the UK, making them a preferred choice for families and social workers seeking the highest standard of complex disability support.