Coombswood Special School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 16 June 2026

To be a pupil here means belonging to a welcoming, friendly community where everyone feels valued and accepted. Staff take time to understand each pupil’s individual needs, strengths, challenges and circumstances. Because they know pupils so well, staff provide the right support to help them feel safe and to be ready to learn. Most pupils arrive after experiencing difficulties in previous settings or long periods out of education. All have special educational needs and/or disabilities. Staff help them to rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning and establish positive routines. Pupils improve their attendance significantly. They develop better learning habits and begin to enjoy school because they experience success. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, writing and mathematics, while also providing engaging lessons in practical subjects such as food technology. Whether in class or interacting with others at social times, pupils are very well supported to overcome difficulties and achieve in lots of different ways. Importantly, pupils feel listened to and know that staff will help them when they have worries. During their time at the school, pupils learn to manage their emotions constructively and build resilience. The school day follows established routines that help pupils feel calm and secure. Pupils' behaviour improves because expectations are clear and relationships are strong. Bullying and unkind behaviour are rare because staff promote kindness, respect and understanding. If problems do occur, staff deal with them quickly and effectively. Personal development plays a central role in school life. Through lessons, clubs, trips and community activities, pupils learn important life skills and develop greater independence. The school’s values of determination, respect, empowerment, appreciation and motivation shape everything it does. Staff encourage pupils to take responsibility and believe in themselves. As a result, pupils become better prepared for their next steps, with greater confidence and higher aspirations.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to strengthen teaching so that all staff bring an appropriate level of challenge and support in lessons to maximise pupils’ engagement with learning.
• Leaders should use the high-quality information they gather about the school’s performance to bring an even sharper focus to school improvement planning.

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