Harris Aspire Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 November 2023

Everyone involved in the running of this school has high aspirations for what the pupils can achieve. All staff are committed to nurturing positive outcomes in the short while pupils are at the school. Pupils feel safe and trust that staff will help them to resolve any issues that may occur. From the time pupils join the school, they are helped to understand their own challenges, talents and interests. The school's strong social and emotional support strategies help pupils to identify what might help them to make the next steps in their learning. For example, pupils work with life coaches who support their personal development. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their behaviour and understand their emotions. They are taught strategies to help build their self-esteem, regulate their feelings and make informed choices. The impact of this is reflected in pupils' positive behaviour inside and outside the classroom. Pupils' development is further enriched through a range of experiences, such as boxing, bicycle motocross and meditation. Pupils have opportunities to take on roles and responsibility, for example through the school council and a Breaking Barriers leadership programme. Citizenship, respect and character building underpin the culture of the school. The school's curriculum is suitably broad to meet the needs of pupils on short-term placements. Pupils who remain at the school until the end of Year 11 take a range of courses designed to capture their interest and prepare them for their next steps in education or employment.

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