The Poplars

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 January 2025

Pupils, all of whom have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), enjoy attending this school. Staff make sure pupils' safety and well-being are at the centre of everything they do. Staff know pupils extremely well. Staff support pupils to manage their emotions when they find situations challenging. The school environment is calm and welcoming. Adults support pupils effectively so that they focus on learning in lessons. Pupils behave positively. They are respectful to staff and are accepting of each other. The school has a bespoke curriculum. Pupils access learning in ways that meet their sensory and physical needs well. They enjoy one-to-one and small group teaching. As a result, pupils achieve well. Pupils learn how to keep themselves physically healthy through daily walks. During this time, pupils develop important social skills. Staff encourage them to join in conversations and to reflect on their day. In addition, pupils enjoy regular cycling sessions with a charity based in the community. Through cookery sessions, pupils learn how to hold and use everyday kitchen equipment. They develop an understanding about healthy eating. Pupils follow instructions well and are eager to sample the completed produce.

What the school should improve

• There are some inconsistencies in staff expectations of behaviour and the teaching of the curriculum. As a result, the implementation of the school's curriculum is sometimes inconsistent and, where this happens, pupils do not learn and remember as well as they could. The school should ensure that the staff team have a consistent experience in terms of training for both behaviour management and curriculum delivery.

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