Ormiston Queensmill Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 22 February 2023

Pupils enjoy school. They like and understand the calm routines staff set up for them to follow. Leaders make sure pupils can make choices and have opportunities to try things which help build their confidence and independence. Leaders expect pupils, all of whom have special educational needs and/or disabilities, to achieve well and work hard. Staff adapt lessons well so that pupils can understand what to do and recognise what they have learned. Leaders are rightly proud of the wide range of ambitious activities and events pupils can enjoy here. For example, older pupils recently went on a residential visit to Spain and others have performed for the public at a local theatre. Teachers use the personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) curriculum effectively to help pupils understand their feelings. They are ambitious to help pupils look beyond their immediate surroundings and realise 'they are part of something bigger'. Staff identify, record and follow up on rare instances of bullying. Pupils behave considerately towards one another and feel secure because they know staff understand their needs.

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, it is not clear precisely what leaders have decided pupils should learn and in which order. There are variations in how well teachers check what pupils have understood. Leaders should ensure that the key ideas pupils need to learn and remember are clearly identified. They also need to continue to develop teachers' skills and confidence in using assessment to establish how well pupils have developed their understanding in different subjects.

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