Larches High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 30 April 2024

Many pupils arrive at Larches High School having previously struggled to access learning or attend school regularly. They often have gaps in their learning or find it hard to manage their behaviour. In this school, pupils receive the support that they need to help them to re-engage with education and to develop their interests. It is a safe, nurturing place to be. Pupils feel understood and respected. They form positive relationships with staff. Pupils feel valued at this school. They are taught by specialist staff who genuinely care about them. Pupils behave well and rarely disrupt the learning of others. Those pupils who need extra support to manage their emotional and mental health benefit from carefully designed therapies. This helps to build pupils' resilience and social skills. The school has ensured that there is a purposeful start to the day with clear routines in place. This helps pupils to settle quickly and to approach their learning positively. Some pupils told inspectors that they enjoy the breakfast provided, which helps them to begin their day well. Staff have high expectations of what pupils should achieve. Pupils know exactly what staff expect of them. Pupils follow an ambitious curriculum that matches their needs. This includes access to a wide range of vocational courses. Pupils are prepared well for their next steps.

What the school should improve

• Some pupils do not attend school often enough. These pupils miss out on important learning. This puts them at risk of falling behind in their education and not making positive next steps beyond the Larches school. The school should support these pupils to improve their rates of attendance, so that they have better success in their learning.

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