The Link School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 June 2025

Pupils' positive well-being is central to everything this school does. All staff are aspirational for what pupils can achieve. They understand that their roles contribute to strengthening pupils' self-esteem and confidence. As a result, many pupils' resilience and engagement with education improves over time. Staff have purposeful working relationships with pupils. They get to know pupils' interests and strengths. They become acutely aware of each pupil's challenges. They use this knowledge of pupils to personalise programs for learning and personal development. Staff support pupils to recognise that they may need help. They equip pupils with the communication and strategies to be able to help themselves. Staff empower pupils to make choices, build independence and express their feelings. This aids pupils to manage their behaviour and emotions. As a result, pupils feel safe and enjoy coming to school. Furthermore, incidents of behaviour, in and outside of the classroom, for many pupils reduce over time. The school provides meaningful educational experiences for pupils beyond the classroom. Regular outings to generalise learning include visits to the community shops, places of worship and local animal centres. Pupils visit museums and galleries. They have opportunities for overnight stays at activity centres. All this also supports their preparation for adulthood.

What the school should improve

• Opportunities for pupils and students in the sixth form to work towards and achieve accreditations are limited. This reduces the gains that some of the oldest pupils make. The school should ensure that it identifies and embeds appropriate accreditation pathways.

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