Dorset Studio School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

The school has high expectations of all pupils.

The curriculum is well matched to pupils' starting points and future aspirations. Extensive work experience for those in key stage 4 is highly valued by pupils. Many pupils move on to employment and education in related areas.

Interactions between staff and pupils are warm and friendly. Pupils have trusted adults they can talk to if needed. Consequently, pupils feel safe at Dorset Studio School, and most enjoy attending.

Pupils on the key stage 4 site appreciate the workplace environment. They are mature and responsible. Both sites are calm and orderly.

The land-based curriculum inspires and motivates p...upils. They enjoy applying what they have learned. Learning in English, mathematics and science is linked to the land-based curriculum where possible.

All aspects of the curriculum support pupils' wider personal development. Some pupils take on leadership roles, such as reading buddies or members of the student council. Outdoor education is integral to the curriculum.

Many pupils take part in The Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

Pupils achieve well, particularly in the specialist land-based curriculum that the school provides. The curriculum is designed and adapted well for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Consequently, they thrive and achieve good outcomes.

The curriculum builds on what pupils already know and can do. The school supports effectively pupils who arrive at the school unable to read well enough.

Pupils become better readers because all aspects of the curriculum help them to do so. Those who need more support to become confident readers receive appropriate help.

Teachers' strong knowledge of the subjects they teach helps them to present information clearly.

They check what pupils know and identify misunderstandings and errors. However, they do not always correct mistakes or misconceptions once they have been identified. As a result, some pupils have gaps in their knowledge that persist.

The school has high expectations of how pupils should behave. However, not all staff ensure that pupils meet these expectations. As a result, in some lessons, pupils do not learn as much as they could because they are inattentive or distracted by their peers.

Bullying and discriminatory language are not tolerated by the school. Reported incidents are dealt with well.Pupils learn how to stay safe, including online.

The school ensures that pupils learn about the issues that are most likely to affect them. For example, they work with the local police to raise awareness of firearm safety to support pupils who require gun licences for their land-based activity out of school. Sensitive topics are taught in an age-appropriate way by staff who know pupils well.

There is a comprehensive programme to support pupils' wider personal development. Pupils' horizons are broadened by trips, visits and guest speakers. A thorough careers programme challenges gender stereotypes and helps pupils to understand the different options open to them.

For example, pupils learn about their options from university visits. They are also aware of the job roles that are most in demand in the local area. They are well prepared for their next steps in education and training.

Leaders have a clear vision for continuing to improve the school. For instance, they review the curriculum to ensure that it meets the needs of all pupils. Staff feel well supported by leaders.

Many trustees have been involved with the school since it was set up. They ensure that it remains true to the vision of providing high-quality education that meets the needs of local employers as well as pupils.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

What does the school need to do to improve?

(Information for the school and appropriate authority)

• Pupils' errors and misconceptions are not always corrected promptly when they are identified. As a result, gaps in some pupils' knowledge persist. The school needs to ensure that teaching consistently enables pupils to acquire accurate knowledge of all that they study.

• Sometimes, staff do not ensure that all pupils meet the high expectations that the school has. Consequently, the behaviour of a few pupils sometimes interrupts learning. The school needs to ensure that all staff follow the school behaviour policy so that all pupils behave consistently well and can focus on their learning.