Woodside Lodge Outdoor Learning Centre

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 May 2024

Pupils thrive at this school. This is because staff know pupils exceptionally well. Staff thoroughly understand pupils' needs. The care that pupils receive is genuine and tangible. Pupils benefit from excellent opportunities to learn academically and about themselves. Pupils learn the curriculum in the classrooms and through a wide range of practical outdoor activities. They appreciate the opportunities that working in farm settings provide. Pupils enjoy working with the schools' animals. Tiny, the horse, is a particular favourite. In one base, pupils have adopted a family of stray cats. One pupil, typical of many, commented, 'We learn to look after everything here.' Pupils also benefit hugely from learning in the school's wooded areas, woodwork workshop, paddocks and outdoor gymnasium. Pupils behave exceptionally well. They are motivated by the 'AWESOME' points on offer. They look forward to exchanging points for cash and buying rewards that help with their learning or do good for others. Pupils are taught to understand their learning and autism needs. Over time, they learn the strategies that they need to be successful in their next stages. Pupils are supported extremely well when preparing to move to their next settings.

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