Chesnut Lodge Special School

Overview

Chesnut Lodge Special School continues to be a “good school,” providing a “caring and welcoming” environment where every pupil is valued. Pupils arrive with “big happy smiles,” feel “safe and secure,” and “achieve well,” often exceeding staff’s high expectations. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with pupils actively influencing improvements and demonstrating pride in their learning and school life.

Strengths

• Pupils experience a “broad and exciting curriculum” tailored to their wide range of special educational needs, with targets woven into daily learning.
• Teachers use “creative” resources and “multi-sensory” activities to ensure a “quality learning experience” and secure progress.
• Communication is a priority, supported by personalised resources, sign language, and a “well-designed phonics programme.”
• Staff know pupils “extremely well,” allowing for proactive support that minimises disruption and ensures dignity.
• The curriculum effectively prepares pupils for adulthood, including safety, social interactions, and successful transitions to further education.

Areas to improve

• Governors must take “full responsibility for statutory policies” rather than relying too heavily on the local authority, to ensure they reflect current government guidelines.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are “effective,” with a “strong culture” where staff are thoroughly trained, quick to notice concerns, and persistent in securing support for pupils and families.