Athena School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 11 February 2025

The school continues to provide high-quality education and care for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Staff have a clear commitment to support pupils to achieve their potential. They work towards the school's vision of helping pupils 'acknowledge the past, manage the present and work hard towards the future'. Staff understand pupils' individual needs well. They are very aware of the difficulties pupils experience. They offer a nurturing approach to help pupils understand themselves. Staff help pupils to manage their emotions by employing a range of carefully thought-out- strategies. Edna the guinea pig also helps to provide pupils with opportunities to have a calming break. Pupils develop strong working relationships with staff. Most pupils appreciate the help staff give them. Pupils generally respond well to the high expectations set for them. Many say that they feel happy and cared for. They engage with learning tasks and are proud of their work and achievements. Most parents and carers are supportive of the school. One parent expressed the views of many others when they said, 'my child has absolutely thrived since starting at Athena School, they look forward to going to school and the positive change in them is incredible!'

What the school should improve

• In some lessons, and interventions, the work and activities pupils are given do not always match the stated learning outcomes. As a result, pupils spend time and effort on tasks that do not always develop the important knowledge they need to learn. This slows their progress through the curriculum and reduces their chances of meeting their targets. The school should ensure that all activities and interventions contribute towards developing the intended learning outcomes so pupils can achieve as highly as possible.
• The school does not use the data it has collected about behaviour and absence as effectively as it could. For example, the school does not identify accurately any patterns or trends that provide leaders with an accurate view of the whole school. This limits the information governors have to keep the school accountable. The school should continue to refine its processes for data analysis, so leaders at all levels have a clear picture of the school to help them develop strategic priorities.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)