Duke of Lancaster School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 May 2026

Pupils enjoy learning and take part in a wide range of experiences that help them to grow in confidence. They learn to be independent and manage the routines of school life. They take part in many trips, including overseas, which broaden their understanding of the world. Pupils also visit colleges and take part in a careers programme that helps them to identify their next steps. Work experience and alternative provision placements support this further and open doors to apprenticeships. Pupils are enthusiastic about learning and take pride in their work. They develop secure composition skills in writing and build knowledge across subjects. Expectations for written work vary between subjects and in some areas, pupils could be challenged more. Pupils use a wide range of adaptations, including different writing materials and technology, to help them learn. They follow curriculum interests that reflect the needs of each cohort, such as creative computing media. Pupils form positive relationships with staff. Staff use pupils' interests to help them settle into routines, especially the youngest pupils. Pupils arrive happy and enjoy shared breakfasts and lunches. As they spend more time in school, they become confident in social situations. They feel safe and can name adults they would go to if worried. When bullying occurs, staff deal with it well and keep parents and carers informed. Attendance has risen over the last year. Staff work closely with families to help pupils attend regularly. Some pupils still struggle to attend, but leaders consider all options to support them, including alternative provision or virtual attendance. This approach has helped some pupils return to school for the first time in several years.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should support teachers to ensure that tasks are consistently designed to deepen pupils’ thinking and provide meaningful opportunities to practise and apply what they have been taught.
• Leaders should ensure that staff raise expectations around the quality of pupils' presentation in work across the curriculum.
• Leaders should continue to build relationships and positive communication with parents and carers.

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