The Castle School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 April 2024

The Castle School is a very special place. It is a vibrant and exciting place to learn. Parents and carers are delighted with how their children thrive and flourish. Pupils, who all have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are exceptionally well prepared for their futures. For example, pupils develop their communication, social and entrepreneurial talents when selling items they have made at Newbury Market. Pupils are happy and feel safe. At all three school sites, pupils feel a strong sense of belonging to a caring school community. Pupils have an exceptional understanding and appreciation of their peers. They form strong and trusting friendships. Pupils behave very well. They are kind to each other. Staff are quick to resolve any worries that pupils report. The school has high ambitions for pupils. It enables pupils to achieve strongly from their starting points. Pupils access a broad curriculum. This results in them gaining the relevant qualifications to pursue their aspirations. The curriculum is enriched through a myriad of well-chosen activities. The choir often performs to groups. Some pupils visit local care homes. Pupils enjoy taking part in visits to activity centres. These experiences develop both their social and academic skills.

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