Summerdown School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 January 2025

The school's core values are the golden threads that underpin the provision that pupils receive. Over time, pupils develop the capacity to show these values of independence, confidence, enjoyment, participation and determination. In doing so, they meet the school's relentless ambition that pupils will leave here ready for the next stage in their lives. Pupils are independent and confident communicators. They have a range of well-planned activities to practise these vital social skills. These include seaside trips to 'ALFIE' the caravan. During these trips, pupils work together to complete a range of tasks, such as cooking and cleaning. This helps to develop their life skills. Pupils flourish because they attend this transformative school. They have a wide range of communication, sensory and medical needs. Some pupils have life-limiting and degenerative conditions and receive intensive, specialist care. Despite these complex needs, the school has the highest ambition for what all pupils will achieve and experience. These ambitions are realised. Central to this work is the excellent relationships between pupils and staff. Expertly trained staff know pupils' needs exceedingly well, and pupils trust that staff will take care of them. Pupils consistently follow the rules and routines that adults set. Pupils work well together and show genuine care and compassion towards each other.

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