New Woodlands School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Over the past two years, leaders and governors have overseen a period of significant change. They have tenaciously addressed the areas for improvement identified at the time of the last inspection. The school now provides a good education.

Leaders expect pupils to do their best. Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, make good progress from when they enter the school. Leaders ensure that pupils' educational, social and emotional needs are identified at the earliest stage and that they are then supported to achieve well.

Teachers share leaders' ambition. They plan effectively to meet the needs of each pupil in their class. They pra...ise where praise is due.

They challenge pupils to do better when their work is not their best. Teachers do not always give pupils enough time to deepen their knowledge and refine their skills. Not all teachers expect the same high standard of presentation in books.

Leaders provide a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum. Subject specialists ensure that planning is of good quality. They work together to strengthen links between subjects to enrich and deepen pupils' understanding.

Leaders' work to promote pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is strong. Pupils benefit from many trips, events and social activities. Safeguarding is effective.

Leaders, staff and governors are clear about their safeguarding responsibilities. They are acutely aware of the risks that pupils face. They work effectively with pupils to build their resilience and understanding of how to keep themselves safe.

Pupils behave very well in lessons. They are proud of and keen to talk about their work. In unstructured or unfamiliar situations, pupils' behaviour is not so good.

On occasions, some pupils are disrespectful and unkind in their choice of language. There is some inconsistency in how adults respond to incidences of poor behaviour. Attendance is improving and the number of pupils who are persistently absent is reducing.

Leaders make every effort to ensure that pupils attend school regularly.

Information about this school

This is a special school for pupils in key stages 1 to 4 whose prime learning need is social, emotional and mental health (SEMH). The majority of pupils have an education, health and care plan.

The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is well above average. Pupils come from a range of ethnic backgrounds. The proportion of pupils who speak English as an additional language is well below average.