The Children’s Trust School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils flourish at this school. Their individuality is recognised and nurtured.

One parent told us that this school 'opens up a whole new world' for its pupils. We agree. Staff here are determined that pupils should experience life in all its richness, regardless of their special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

The education that pupils receive at this school helps them to participate more confidently in the world around them. Staff are experts at teaching pupils to communicate using a range of methods personalised to each individual. This work empowers pupils, helping them to find their voice.

Pupils enjoy their learning here, and lessons are c...haracterised by moments of wonder and celebration.

The needs of pupils are always the first priority at The Children's Trust School. A caring, child-centred culture is tangible throughout the organisation from the work of trustees through to daily classroom interactions.

Staff get to know pupils exceptionally well. They are skilled in interpreting every nuance in pupils' behaviour and communication. This motivates pupils to engage with their learning meaningfully and ensures that their efforts and progress are recognised.

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

The school's curriculum is extremely effective. It provides an adaptable framework, which teachers combine with the information from pupils' education, health and care (EHC) plans to ensure that learning is highly purposeful and individualised. The curriculum and its delivery allow all pupils to experience success and recognition.

Older pupils are given the opportunity to achieve meaningful accreditations. Information from teachers' assessments is used to adjust teaching and fine-tune pupils' learning goals. In addition, trustees and governors make excellent use of this information to assure themselves that the curriculum is having its intended impact.

Pupils' physical development is central to the curriculum throughout the school. Staff are skilful in combining pupils' targets in this area with specialist therapeutic input, to ensure that all pupils make the best possible progress. Consequently, pupils achieve greater control of their posture, improved muscle strength and more independent movement.

The school excels at getting to know pupils' interests and talents, often finding innovative ways to nurture and develop these. Pupils benefit from a strong focus on accessible art and music, both as areas of study and as a therapeutic input. There are many examples of pupils being empowered by opportunities to express themselves creatively.

They are proud of their achievements, such as the artwork which is displayed around the school. Pupils enjoy a broad range of extra-curricular clubs and activities, such as 'sing and sign' and, notably, their own music and art festival.

Leaders have given careful thought to the way personal, social, health and economic education and relationships, sex and health education are woven through the curriculum at an age-appropriate level.

As a result, pupils develop their understanding of important topics, such as consent and privacy. They also learn about how to use electronic devices safely and assistive technology effectively. The school has a highly ambitious careers programme, where pupils learn about different workplaces from hairdressing to horticulture.

Older pupils also benefit from carefully planned enterprise activities, such as designing and selling their own candles and artwork.

Staff understand that the pupils' behaviour is a form of communication. They pick up on the smallest of changes and take a highly reflective approach to understanding and addressing the root causes.

This is extremely effective at ensuring pupils remain engaged and motivated. The school has very high expectations of pupils' attendance. They work effectively to meet pupils' medical needs within the school, so that they do not miss out on learning.

The success of this school is underpinned by the expertise of its staff. Leaders have created a culture where everyone is keen to reflect and learn. Professional opportunities are wide-ranging and targeted for greatest impact on pupils.

The school and trust engage with their staff very well. They consider the impact of policies on staff workload and have created a workplace culture which is rewarding and supportive.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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