Samuel Rhodes MLD School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 12 May 2026

Pupils belong to a calm, supportive and purposeful community. They feel safe, understood and ready to learn. The day starts in a highly structured, welcoming way. Staff greet pupils warmly as they arrive. There is a clear sense of purpose as pupils enter the school. Pupils know where they need to be and go there without fuss. This helps pupils settle quickly and feel happy and secure. Pupils behave very well. They show highly positive attitudes toward each other, staff and their learning. Clear routines and strong relationships underpin daily life. Classrooms and social spaces are orderly and focused. Staff understand pupils' needs very well. They support pupils to manage their emotions effectively. Pupils learn to recognise their feelings and respond appropriately. When difficulties arise, staff remain calm and respectful. This keeps learning positive for everyone. Pupils trust staff to help them. They know who to talk to if they are worried. Pupils understand how to stay safe online and in the community. They treat each other with respect and kindness. Bullying is rare. When it happens, staff deal with it carefully and quickly. Pupils enjoy learning and take part in a wide range of activities. Lessons are meaningful and matched to pupils' needs. Pupils develop considerable confidence in speaking and listening. They explain their ideas clearly and take part in group discussions. Learning extends beyond the classroom. Pupils cook, take part in enterprise projects and visits in the community. For example, pupils run the café and tuck shop. They handle money and serve others with confidence. Pupils develop important skills that prepare them for employment, training and for life after school. Pupils make notable gains from their starting points. They improve in reading, writing and mathematics and develop communication, independence and self-control. Older pupils become increasingly confident. They speak with positivity and optimism about their achievements and future. Pupils flourish in this setting because leaders and staff have high expectations for what they can achieve in life. Pupils' needs are met through carefully tailored support, so they develop the independence skills necessary to be successful.

What the school should improve

• Leaders and governors should continue to strengthen how assessment is used by staff to secure consistently exceptional achievement across subjects, and ensure this information is shared with parents and carers to help them to understand their child's holistic and academic achievement even better.

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