The Willows School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 25 November 2025

Pupils eagerly attend this inclusive and nurturing school. Staff welcome them warmly each morning. Pupils' high attendance reflects their enthusiasm. A calm, friendly atmosphere helps pupils, including those in the post-16 provision, feel happy, settled and ready to learn. Pupils benefit from classrooms and outdoor spaces that are thoughtfully designed to promote their wellbeing. Staff know pupils well. They build trusting relationships that remove barriers to attendance and learning. Parents and carers value the school’s significant, positive impact on their children’s happiness and achievements. Pupils feel respected and cared for. They trust adults to support them with any concerns. The school prepares pupils effectively for adulthood and life beyond school by providing a rich range of experiences. Staff place each pupil’s education, health and care plan at the heart of their learning journey, using it to guide teaching and wider support. Staff are highly adept in meeting pupils’ social, emotional and mental health needs. This helps pupils to engage in learning, enjoy school and thrive. Pupils respond positively to the school’s high expectations. They are eager to succeed and behave well. They feel safe and show positive attitudes. Most pupils achieve well during their time at the school. Leaders have recently refined the curriculum to meet pupils’ needs more precisely. While well considered, this revised approach is at an early stage. The school’s plans to check how effectively pupils learn and remember the new content are not fully developed. A wide range of extra-curricular clubs, local area visits, curriculum-linked trips and visitors support pupils’ personal development effectively. Staff design residential experiences with great care. Pupils value these highly. Older pupils, including post-16 students, deepen their skills and aspirations through work experience, volunteering and participation in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that the revised curriculum is implemented effectively and meets the needs of all pupils.
• Leaders should ensure that staff consistently identify gaps in pupils' knowledge and act swiftly to address them.

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