Harbour School Dorset

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 October 2023

Pupil and staff numbers have continued to grow steadily since the school opened. The school has created a curriculum that meets pupils' academic, social and emotional needs. The school tries to help each pupil learn in the way that is best for them. It continues to change the curriculum to achieve this. For some pupils, learning is planned through practical activities. Other pupils learn national curriculum subjects. Post-16 students enjoy the new vocational training in car mechanics, salon skills, catering and horticulture. Staff build strong relationships with pupils. These relationships enable pupils to feel safe and help them to enjoy school. Pupils sometimes worry when other pupils are upset or angry. Teachers and learning mentors are well trained to help pupils to become calmer at these times. Pupils are helped to understand the reasons for others' difficulties. There is a calm atmosphere around the school that supports learning. Pupils work hard most of the time. Learning mentors encourage pupils to complete their work independently. Teachers encourage pupils to gain qualifications. This helps to prepare pupils for their next stage of education, employment or training.

What the school should improve

• Teachers do not always follow the planned sequence of learning. When this happens, pupils' learning does not build on what they have studied previously. The school should ensure that teachers are supported to follow curriculum planning closely.
• At times, assessment design does not ensure that teachers have an accurate view of what pupils know and can do. As a result, gaps in pupils' understanding are sometimes not identified. The school should ensure that teachers have the skills and knowledge to carry out accurate assessments.
• Occasionally, staff are not confident in subject-specific knowledge. This sometimes hinders their ability to match the specific subject curriculum to the SEND of pupils. Consequently, the curriculum is not always implemented in a way that enables pupils to learn. The school should ensure that staff's subject knowledge is deepened. How can I feedback my views? You can use Ofsted Parent View to give Ofsted your opinion on your child's school, or to find out what other parents and carers think. We use information from Ofsted Parent View when deciding which schools to inspect, when to inspect them and as part of their inspection. The Department for Education has further guidance on how to complain about a school.

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