First Base Bury St Edmunds

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 July 2023

Pupils know that staff believe in them. All pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities. They join First Base having experienced disruption or difficulties in their schooling. Pupils usually respond positively to adults' clear and patient guidance. Pupils develop the knowledge and skills to learn alongside their classmates. They like school. Pupils' attendance is high and they are well placed to re-join mainstream education. Pupils get along with each other. They are well cared for and develop positive relationships with staff. Staff use their thorough knowledge of each pupil's needs to help them to manage their emotions and conduct. When pupils become agitated, skilled adults use familiar routines to settle them back to their learning. Pupils respond particularly well to the praise, kindness, resilience and 'smiley face' awards they receive when they get things right. Pupils receive a good quality of education. They learn to read and like the regular opportunities to grab a book and to read with adults. Pupils also develop confidence speaking with adults. They get the chance to put this into practice when they visit the local shops, theatre and bakery. Pupils feel safe, including from bullying. They turn to trusted adults, who resolve any incidents that arise.

What the school should improve

• At times, when delivering the curriculum, adults are not sufficiently clear in their instructions to pupils. Where this is the case, pupils are less certain as to what is expected of them in their learning. Their attention wavers and adults can take a little too long to refocus them. This slows pupils' progress. Leaders should ensure all staff are trained to teach the curriculum well and ensure that pupils focus on their learning and achieve well.

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