St John's Catholic Specialist School, Boston Spa

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 February 2024

The nurturing ethos and warm, caring relationships make this school a happy place to be. Pupils enjoy coming to school. Staff know pupils extremely well. All pupils are valued. Their individual needs are carefully considered. Well-established routines and clear expectations for behaviour help pupils to feel safe. The environment is calm and orderly. Pupils behave well. Staff provide effective support to pupils. They help them to understand and manage their emotions. Leaders are aspirational for all pupils. Staff share leaders' high expectations for pupils. There is a strong focus on developing pupils' independence and preparing them for adulthood. The curriculum aligns with the school's mission to 'develop the entire potential of every person'. Pupils appreciate that they can access learning in ways that are comfortable and meet their sensory needs well. They learn a broad and ambitious range of subjects. Pupils like holding positions of responsibility, such as school councillors. They work with staff to suggest ways to improve the school. They like taking part in a range of fundraising events. They enjoy the various lunchtime clubs and activities. The school nurtures pupils' musical talents. Pupils develop confidence through their musical performances. Sixth-form students appreciate attending local colleges and taking part in work experience.

What the school should improve

• Leaders are in the process of redesigning the curriculum in some curriculum subjects. This makes it difficult for staff to check what pupils know and can remember in these subjects. Leaders should ensure that the knowledge and skills that pupils need to know are clearly identified in all subjects so that staff can check exactly what pupils know and can remember to plan their next steps effectively.

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