Kelford School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 21 May 2024

Pupils are happy and excited to come to Kelford School. Staff greet them warmly as they arrive. Most pupils settle quickly into the routine of the school day. Familiar and trusted staff, who know pupils well, help pupils to feel safe and secure. Staff help pupils to be settled and ready for learning. For younger pupils and those in early years, learning starts with circle time and a game, a rhyme or a song. Older pupils often complete a round of sensory circuits to help them regulate, ready for learning. One pupil told the inspectors that, 'In school you have to try your hardest and do your best.' This aspiration could be seen across the school, from a pupil following light and colours using her eyes to others working hard in their maths books. Pupils know and understand that school staff care for them, showing kindness and respect. Most understand that hurting others is not the right thing to do. As a result, there are very few incidents of bullying in school.

What the school should improve

• The outdoor provision in the early years is inaccessible to some pupils with physical disabilities. This reduces their opportunities to participate and develop their physical skills. The school should provide greater opportunities to enable children who have a physical difficulty to participate fully in outdoor activities with support and independently.
• There are limited opportunities for pupils to join clubs and activities at social times. This limits pupils' chances to socialise with friends and to try new activities. The school should develop the number and range of clubs available to pupils to ensure that they can develop their talents and interests outside of the classroom.

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