Sherwood Foundation School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 9 May 2024

Sherwood Park School provides a nurturing environment in which pupils thrive. Its commitment to 'breaking the mould' is not only a slogan, but a practice that is woven into the fabric of the school's culture. Pupils' welfare, care and safety are at the centre of everything that staff do. Staff forge strong and trusting relationships with pupils based on an acute understanding of their individual needs. This supports pupils to develop their self-regulation skills and their independence particularly well. Not surprisingly, pupils like attending this school. They make friends and play together at breaktimes and lunchtimes. Due to their special educational needs, some pupils find it difficult to understand what bullying is. However, they know adults will help them deal with any worries they may have. Occasionally, pupils become agitated or distressed because they are confused or frustrated. Adults skilfully help pupils at these times so that lessons are rarely disrupted. Most parents and carers reported a substantial positive impact on their child's development since joining the school.

What the school should improve

• The school's curriculum for pupils who can access more formal learning is not as well set out and sequenced as for the other pathways. This means that some pupils who are ready for more formal learning do not make as much progress as they could. Leaders should complete the process of implementing the new curriculum. They should ensure that the essential knowledge that pupils need to learn over time is set out for all pathways.

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