The Stables Independent School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 30 April 2024

Pupils feel accepted and valued at The Stables. They learn that it is possible to overcome difficult past experiences. Here, they can look towards a more positive future. Warm relationships help pupils learn to trust the adults who care for them. Pupils feel and are safe. Staff are astute at noticing and responding to pupils' social and emotional needs. This helps pupils to regain control of their response to challenging situations. For example, if they lose a game, they learn to keep calm and give praise to an opponent. It is within this nurturing environment that pupils re-engage with education and progress well. Staff make sure that lessons focus on important skills, such as how to understand a wide range of texts. Pupils find new interests. These include learning to play the drums or gardening. Therefore, when pupils leave the school, they have talents they can be proud of. Dedicated staff work hard to remove barriers to pupils' participation in the community. For example, building pupils' confidence to take the bus and go to careers fairs. Staff help pupils to step out of their comfort zone and make good memories. For example, surfing and horse-riding.

What the school should improve

• Lessons do not sufficiently provide opportunities for pupils to develop their handwriting. This means that some pupils' handwriting difficulties persist longer than they should and pupils do not have sufficient pride in their work. Leaders should continue to train staff in how to adapt lessons to help pupils with their presentation and pride in their work.

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