Bradshaw Farm Independent School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 4 March 2025

Pupils value the kind and caring learning environment that the school has established. They are happy at school and appreciate the no-nonsense approach staff take with them. They know staff want the very best for them and keep them safe. As one pupil said of staff, 'They do things for us they don't have to.' Clear school routines ensure pupils know how they are expected to behave. For example, pupils arrive promptly at the start of the school day after eating breakfast and wearing their uniform. They are keen to earn tokens for demonstrating the school's values such as respect, responsibility and problem-solving. If they make the wrong choice, staff make sure they have the help they need to get back on track. Often, pupils have previously had negative experiences of school and faced significant personal challenges. During their time at Bradshaw Farm, pupils learn the value of education. They respond well to the high expectations the school has for their achievements. The school gives pupils the time and space to reflect, reset and move to their next placement with improved self-esteem and increased confidence and resilience.

What the school should improve

• Sometimes assessment information is not used sufficiently well. This means that, occasionally, pupils are at risk of being given work where they have not secured prior knowledge. At other times, they are not moved on to new learning when they have already secured the intended learning. The school should ensure that these checks are used effectively to provide pupils with tasks matched to the stage they are at.
• Pupils' knowledge of a range of faiths and beliefs is limited. While pupils recognise they should show respect for others, they do not have a well-developed understanding of what they are respecting. The school should ensure pupils securely understand different people's religions and values.

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