Fiveways Special School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils excel in all areas of their learning at Fiveways School.

The curriculum enables and supports pupils to learn how to communicate their views and feelings exceptionally well. Consequently, pupils relish learning about a range of subjects. Children in the early years love listening to stories and respond with enthusiasm and joy.

Students in the sixth form articulate their thoughts about the world around them very well.

Staff are very knowledgeable about the communication, learning and therapeutic needs of each pupil. Thus, each pupil, including children in the early years and students in the sixth form, learn an expertly designed curriculum that meets the...ir specific needs.

Pupils and their parents value the education provided by the school.

Through the curriculum, pupils learn how to form positive relationships and to participate in the world beyond school. Pupils have many well-planned opportunities to learn about life in Yeovil and throughout Somerset through visits to the shops and parks, travelling by rail and volunteering at Ham Hill.

The school's vision, 'to live a good life now and in the future' is realised fully through the curriculum. Pupils, including children in the early years and sixth form students are exceptionally well prepared for living meaningful, purposeful lives.

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

The school is highly ambitious for all pupils.

It is aspirational for pupils' social, emotional and educational development. The vision of the school enables and supports pupils, including children in early years and students in the sixth form, to engage in the world beyond school exceptionally well.

Throughout the curriculum, pupils learn how to communicate their knowledge with impressive skill.

Pupils learn through highly tailored approaches to 'read' the code of visual symbols accompanied by whole words and signing with precision and success. For example, children in the early years who are nonverbal are empowered to 'read' and articulate their thinking. They respond to texts with their own personal opinions.

Sixth form students are supported to communicate their ambitions for the future. The early reading curriculum is very well structured and well taught. Pupils learn to make strong connections between letters and their corresponding sounds.

The curriculum transforms the life chances of pupils at the school.

In the early years, children's physical development is prioritised throughout the curriculum. Children explore the world through a range of personalised activities that successfully stimulate their learning.

Stories lie at the heart of the curriculum and are used effectively to support children's understanding and knowledge of the world around them. Children learn about number very well. Relationships between staff and children are nurturing and supportive.

As a result, children flourish at the school.Staff check what pupils know and do not know with precision. This ensures that the approach to learning for each pupil is bespoke and appropriate.

Pupils learn how to navigate the world with success and confidence. For example, pupils continually review their learning about road safety through moving from one part of the school site to another. Sixth form students build upon their prior learning about life cycles through planting seeds and tending the garden.

Consequently, pupils experience success in their learning which builds their self-esteem.

Sixth form students are extremely well prepared for life beyond school. For example, students gain valuable qualifications.

Students also engage in the Duke of Edinburgh award which further develops their knowledge and confidence. Students participate in work experience and volunteering placements that meet their individual needs and interests. Students learn how to apply their knowledge of mathematics to real situations thereby preparing them very well for their futures.

Pupils learn extremely strong citizenship skills. Pupils engage in the democratic process of voting for the student council. The student council empowers pupils to make changes to the school such as improving the school dinners.

Through the secure relationships with staff, pupils learn about the importance of kindness, respect and empathy. Pupils continually learn about the importance of consent in all areas of their lives.

Pupils' attitudes towards learning are extremely positive.

Pupils have learned how to voice their feelings and manage their emotions. Pupils' attendance at school has improved. The school is vigilant about engaging with parents and carers to ensure that pupils attend school regularly.

Governors are very knowledgeable about the school. They provide support and challenge in equal measure. They are passionate about the school's role in shaping the future lives of pupils.

Staff are overwhelmingly positive about working at the school and feel very well supported. Through continuous training, staff are very well equipped to meet the emotional, physical and sensory needs of each pupil.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.