Redbourn Park School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 11 June 2024

Most pupils join this school having had negative experiences of education previously. The members of the dedicated staff team quickly understand pupils' needs through well-managed transition when pupils join. The school's positive and nurturing approach motivates pupils to come to school. As a result, attendance is high. This supports pupils to successfully start to re-engage with learning. Staff are determined pupils will achieve well. All pupils have an education, health and care (EHC) plan. Staff know each pupil's targets. A combination of therapeutic and academic provision supports pupils to work towards their intended outcomes. Pupils are able to be themselves and express their unique personalities. Staff work hard to respond nimbly to pupils' social and emotional needs. They apply a variety of behaviour management strategies effectively, to encourage pupils to settle, follow routines and access learning. Relationships between adults and pupils are strong. For many pupils, this is their first opportunity to engage in wider school life. They experience school trips and take part in activities linked to their interests and talents, such as in horse riding, dance and art. This develops their confidence and self-esteem. Parents also appreciate the positive impact this school has on their children.

What the school should improve

• There are times when staff do not set work that is ambitious enough or matched closely enough to pupils' needs. When this happens, there are missed opportunities for pupils to engage in learning that extends their knowledge. Pupils at times finish work too early as they can already do it and then disengage. The school needs to ensure that staff have the necessary knowledge to develop tasks that sustain pupils' interest in learning and ensure that pupils achieve what they are fully capable of.
• Some of the individual learning targets set for pupils lack precision. This means that gaps in learning are not always addressed quickly enough. This includes for some younger pupils who require additional support in reading. The school should ensure that they identify with precision the exact outcomes pupils need to secure.

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