Springside

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 19 May 2026

To be a pupil at Springside is to be valued, welcomed and noticed by all leaders and staff. Pupils are kept safe. Issues between pupils that could become bullying are nipped in the bud. Expressing yourself is welcomed, and pupils know to do this in ways that are respectful to others. When pupils struggle with their behaviours, they receive expert help, to prepare them for life in modern Britain. Pupils experience respect and a celebration of their complex needs. This is because leaders and staff seek out the positive. They identify what gets in the way of pupils’ success and act to reduce any obstacles. Pupils find that this is a school that strives to help them to be the best that they can be. Their experiences at home, in the car or on school transport are important to leaders and staff when they plan the support to provide. Pupils’ families are highly valued here. What pupils have experienced at other schools and educational settings is seen as important, too. What pupils know and can do is very carefully considered throughout the school’s support and teaching. Nothing is rushed here. Pupils benefit from staff’s skilful, gentle encouragement and assistance. Learning is shaped around what is best for each pupil throughout their development. Pupils achieve very well from their starting points. They prosper in their knowledge and skills. For some pupils, this may be to develop eye movement or to make deliberate choices. It can be an understanding of different emotions, or to learn how to use words for some other pupils. By the time that pupils leave the school, they are thoroughly prepared for the next stage of their education. Pupils’ successes are noticed and celebrated. Each pupil is recognised and known by their name. The school supports pupils’ feelings and sense of who they are, to the full. Leaders and staff get excited by pupils’ progress, and they celebrate it together and with parents and carers. Pupils flourish in their wellbeing.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure the continued improvement of the school’s work, to achieve and sustain exceptional standards of support, teaching and leadership that have a transformational impact on the outcomes and experiences of all pupils.

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