St Andrew's School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 February 2026

Pupils blossom here. This is because leaders have created an orderly and peaceful school environment and staff use patience and expertise to notice and respond to pupils' emerging needs. Every part of the day, including in lessons, is planned with seamless transitions. Each pupil has their own personalised 'workstation'. This is a place they can work undisturbed, yet comforted by the fact that there are always knowledgeable staff nearby who can help. The school's approach to autism-friendly education helps pupils to feel and be safe, calm and at ease. It unlocks pupils' potential because pupils can concentrate on and enjoy their lessons. They know that their questions will be heard and answered by caring staff who give clear explanations. Pupils look forward to coming to school to see their friends and their teachers. Reported incidents of bullying are rare. Any friendship issues are handled with care, so that pupils learn to forgive and make amends. Pupils attend school regularly because they want to and because the school helps pupils to overcome anxiety. The school also works closely with parents and carers and professionals to promote high attendance. Pupils typically achieve well in all their endeavours. They become more social, knowledgeable and skilled. They successfully complete awards and qualifications, including GCSEs. This is due to the precision planning and expert teaching of the school's broad and ambitious curriculum. It unlocks pupils' potential and includes opportunities to learn about life beyond the school's 4 walls, for example how to have polite conversations and how to navigate public transport. The school plans extra-curricular trips and activities with pupils' needs and interests in mind, such as gardening to help pupils get in touch with nature and weekly 'social visits' so that pupils can feel and be part of the local community. Regular 'pupil voice' sessions provide a friendly forum for pupils to contribute their ideas to improve the life of the school.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that highly effective curriculum and teaching approaches are embedded across all subjects, so that pupils can consistently achieve well. • Leaders should continue to strengthen subject leadership so that lessons are consistently well sequenced and purposeful.

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