Sheiling School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 12 November 2024

Pupils love to learn at this nurturing school. Staff are on hand to greet them as they arrive each day. They take the time to form trusting relationships by getting to know pupils' likes and dislikes. This makes pupils feel understood and valued. Most pupils have complex special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Many have arrived from unsuccessful placements elsewhere. The school expertly guides pupils to overcome barriers to learning and unlock their potential. Pupils work hard, explore career paths and find friendships. They quickly gain a sense of belonging and safety, which shows in their excellent behaviour and high attendance. The school does not limit pupils' aspirations. Pupils achieve well because staff make every moment a learning opportunity. For example, pupils write the weekly menu to support their literacy skills. To develop social skills, they interact positively with others by asking for items in 'tuck shop' time. The school takes great care to prepare pupils for adulthood. Upper school (sixth- form) students work together to complete 'mini enterprise' projects to prepare them for the world of work. Residentials and trips on local transport build pupils' independence. Visits to shops in the community help pupils experience real-life situations.

What the school should improve

• Across the school phases, including in the upper school, a few staff who support pupils in lessons lack sufficient subject expertise to teach the curriculum as intended, including in early reading. Occasionally, this hinders pupils from securely retaining knowledge as well as they could. The school should ensure that all staff have the relevant subject expertise to build and extend pupils' learning in all subjects.

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