Seven Hills

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 1 November 2023

Seven Hills is a haven for its pupils. Pupils have complex needs linked to their social, emotional or mental health (SEMH) needs. Many come to the school following challenging experiences of education and so can be reluctant to engage. However, staff skilfully establish positive, trusting relationships. Pupils feel safe and understood. They re-engage with and develop a love of learning. Staff share high expectations. They prioritise helping pupils be ready for their future. Pupils benefit because they are helped to understand their own needs. Discriminatory behaviour is not tolerated. All pupils are treated as equals. As a result, pupils' behaviour improves rapidly. The school's curriculum has removing pupils' barriers to learning as its foundation. Every subject has a carefully planned curriculum. Staff adapt these plans to allow pupils to study personalised programmes. Pupils learn increasingly well because of the tailored provision they receive. Everyone agrees Seven Hills is harmonious and a good place to be. Pupils appreciate the voice they have and their ability to contribute to their school experiences. Parents are very positive about the difference the school makes for their children. Many say it has transformed their children's opportunities for the future.

What the school should improve

• Some planning is overly ambitious and looks to help pupils remember too much at the same time. This can hinder pupils' learning. The school should build on and strengthen planning and the implementation of the curriculum to focus on the key knowledge it wants pupils to remember and when. This will help ensure that pupils remember key knowledge and apply what they know across subjects and have a secure foundation for lifelong learning.

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