Oakley School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 22 October 2024

The school's motto, 'Work hard, be kind, have fun and stay safe', is embodied in pupils' experiences. The school has a profoundly happy and respectful atmosphere. Pupils and adults treat one another with dignity and kindness. Pupils appreciate and trust their teachers and adults who support them. This is demonstrated through frequent informal conversations and interactions, pupils' strong attendance, and their high engagement in learning. This is a 'total communication' school. Pupils are helped to convey their thoughts, supported by a range of resources. These include communication boards and aids, signing and the spoken word. Pupils develop an understanding of themselves, identifying their emotions and their likes and dislikes. Knowing what motivates and supports each pupil to learn successfully is fundamental to the school's work. Learning activities are adapted for every pupil in light of this information. Consequently, pupils rise to the school's high expectations for their learning. Opportunities for learning beyond the classroom, including in the school's forest area, are exceptional. Graduated opportunities exist for pupils to join clubs, participate in sports events, take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme and to experience numerous school trips. Residential trips take place at increasing distances from home, including France and skiing in Italy.

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