THE BRIDGE SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS SCHOOL

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 November 2023

The school puts in much thought and effort to ensure that every pupil's transition into this school is smooth and successful. Well-trained and caring staff build up strong and trustful working relationships with pupils. They pay close attention to pupils' individual needs and celebrate every small step of success that they achieve. This makes for a happy and positive working environment. Most pupils' attendance is remarkably high. Those very few who sometimes struggle to come in are supported through effective online learning. Pupils who join this school tend to display challenging behaviours. This is especially the case when they get into a heightened emotional state. Staff are skilled in helping pupils to de-escalate their anxieties and calm down quickly. As a result, over time, pupils' behaviour improves and they are able to engage well with learning. The school strives to help pupils to gain the social and communication knowledge and skills that they need to lead meaningful lives. They meet these goals through the bespoke education and pastoral support that they give to each pupil. Parents and carers who spoke with the inspector said that communication with the school is excellent. They described their children as changed, calmer and happier since joining the school.

What the school should improve

• The school's approach to teaching phonics to the few pupils who are ready to learn to read is not strong enough. This means that those few pupils are not developing their early reading skills well. The school should ensure that all staff have the skills to teach the school's phonics programme. The school should also acquire books that match the sounds that pupils learn so that they can have regular practice to develop their reading fluency.

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