The Polygon School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 2 December 2025

Pupils are highly valued at this caring school. They develop a deep sense of belonging due to the warm relationships they form with staff. Pupils trust staff and know they will support them in any challenges they face. This helps pupils, many of whom have had a previously negative experience of school, to re-engage with learning very effectively. As a result, they enjoy learning the deeply personalised curriculum they follow. Pupils know that their voice matters and that staff will listen carefully to any concerns they have. This helps pupils to feel happy and safe in school. Pupils have significantly improved life chances due to the work of the school. This is built on the high ambition staff have for pupils. They help them to achieve this through the personalised support they receive in class. This helps them to achieve a broad range of qualifications. As a result, pupils are prepared for their next steps. Pupils who need extra support benefit from a bespoke programme. This helps pupils to break down the multiple barriers to learning they face. For example, many pupils arrive with very low levels of attendance. The support of staff means this improves rapidly. Pupils behave very well. This contributes to the deep sense of calm that pervades the school. Staff act as excellent role models for pupils. As a result, pupils learn how to regulate their emotions very effectively. This helps them to manage challenging situations confidently. Pupils become increasingly confident and resilient in school. This gives them essential skills for adulthood. This is evident in their work alongside members of the public in the school allotment and their volunteer work. The care and ambition staff show means that pupils thrive during their time at the school.

What the school should improve

• Leaders and governors should refine and deepen their strategic overview in key areas of the school such as reading to support them in improving the work of the school with even greater precision.
• Leaders should ensure that the teaching of reading and oracy are consistent so that gaps in pupils’ knowledge are addressed as quickly as possible.

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