The Dales School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 31 January 2024

Staff care for and provide for pupils very well. All pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). They learn an ambitious curriculum that precisely meets their needs. Pupils become confident communicators. In turn, this supports them to establish trusting relationships with adults and other pupils. This makes for a happy, productive school in which pupils are safe and flourish. They make considerable progress academically and socially. Pupils become very enthusiastic learners. Adults know what sparks each pupil's interests and motivates them to learn. Staff use this knowledge to teach pupils important life skills. Pupils show admirable resilience as they complete more complex learning activities. Pupils love stories. They become more fluent readers. Pupils enjoy their time spent in the school's reading train carriage. Pupils get well-judged help to manage their emotions and behaviour. Attentive staff enthusiastically reward pupils' positive conduct. Staff also calm pupils who become anxious or distressed. Over time, pupils learn to regulate their own behaviour and become less reliant on adult support. Pupils' learning extends beyond classroom and school boundaries. Well-chosen visits and enrichment activities bring learning to life. Pupils gain courage and confidence through activities such as climbing and horse riding.

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