Melrose School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 2 July 2024

This is a school where positive working relationships between staff, pupils and their families is championed. No relationships are taken for granted and people work together well. Pupils said they feel safe and trust that the adults that work with them are there to help. Consequentially, for many pupils' behaviour improves over time and classrooms are mostly calm and orderly. Pupils are listened to. They can join the school council or take part in broader decision making across the school. Pupils' opinions and interests are well considered. They have helped design important spaces in the school and request vocational subjects they are interested in. The school encourages pupils to develop themselves in preparation for the world outside of school and for adulthood. There is an extensive offer of broader opportunities such as bike riding, travel training, horse riding and ice skating. These activities help to develop pupils' resilience, confidence, independence and strengthen relationships. Many pupils who attend this school have had a negative experience of education before they joined here. The curriculum has been designed to help pupils re-engage with learning, as well as achieve the qualifications they need for their next stage of education, training or employment. One parent commented, typical of others: 'My child is now thriving thanks to this school. My child is much happier and settled than ever before.'

What the school should improve

• There is not a consistent pedagogical approach to teaching and learning. This means on occasions pupils' gaps and misconceptions are not addressed swiftly. Or adaptations to learning are not as effective. The school should ensure that all staff have the resources and pedagogical expertise needed to deliver all aspects of the curriculum equally well, so that pupils know, remember and can do more over time.

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