Doncaster School for Deaf Children

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 26 September 2023

Pupils describe Doncaster School for the Deaf as one big family. They say that they love coming to school and feel extremely well supported in their learning. Pupils are very proud of their academic and wider achievements. They are excited for their future careers. Leaders are ambitious for all pupils. They have created a curriculum that supports pupils to achieve well. Staff care deeply for pupils. They know pupils well and adjust their teaching and support to meet pupils' needs. Despite being a small school, leaders have ensured classes are well equipped and pupils have access to specialist learning resources, such as the recently refurbished science lab. Pupils' behaviour both in lessons and during social times is excellent. Pupils say bullying is not an issue, and that staff are always there to help if needed. Parents and carers talk of the rapid progress their children have made since starting at the school. One parent, echoing the views of others, commented, 'My child has thrived at Doncaster school for the Deaf. It is such a valuable provision with small classes and dedicated specialist staff.'

What the school should improve

• Curriculum plans for primary-age pupils are not currently fully developed. It is not clear what pupils will learn or why over the long term. Subject leaders should ensure that the curriculum plans for primary-age pupils clearly identify the knowledge they want pupils to learn to ensure pupils are prepared well for learning in key stages 3 and 4.
• Teachers sometimes do not accurately assess what pupils know and can do within some foundation subjects. Gaps in pupils' understanding are not sufficiently addressed in some instances. Leaders should ensure that teachers assess and understand pupils' strengths and areas for development effectively.

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