Selworthy Special School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 June 2023

Pupils learn an ambitious curriculum. The 'SPECIAL ‒ supportive, personalised, empowering, creative, inspirational, aspirational, life long - curriculum' underpins the vision and aspirations staff, and those responsible for governance, have for the pupils. Staff know pupils well and care about their well-being. As a result, pupils enjoy coming to school and feel safe. Pupils have positive attitudes to learning. Staff have high expectations of pupils' conduct. They model these expectations well. Pupils say that when they find things tricky, staff give them space, listen and take time to talk with them about their feelings. This helps them develop strategies to keep themselves regulated. The school, on all sites, is a calm and purposeful place to learn. Pupils are encouraged to be active participants in their learning. Staff are strong advocates for pupils so they can make themselves heard. Pupils are given opportunities to experience success, as well as being prepared to face challenges that place demands on them in different ways, for example, heightening their emotions and testing their resilience and independence. Many parents and carers describe the positive difference staff have made to their children's well-being and development.

What the school should improve

• The curriculum is not as well developed in some subjects as it is in others. Learning is not broken down into small enough steps of learning. As a result, pupils do not learn as successfully as they could. Leaders need to ensure that they focus on the development of all subjects and that domain leaders have the expertise to do this from Reception through to sixth form.
• Leaders have a wide range of systems and processes in place to ensure they have the necessary information on individuals and groups. At times, the information gathered is replicated and not always easy to manage and access for those that need it. Important information, for example about pupils' needs or effective communication strategies, does not always get the full focus required. Leaders need to make sure that the systems and processes in place are specific, relevant, accessible and efficient to make the best possible impact on how pupils learn and staff workload.

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