Clifton Special School

Overview

The inspection was conducted during industrial action, meaning most teachers did not cooperate with inspectors. Consequently, the ETI states it is “unable to assure the quality of education” and could not fully evaluate outcomes, provision, or leadership. Despite these limitations, the report notes that where evidence was available, such as pupil feedback and documentation, there were positive indicators regarding pupil engagement and transition planning.

Strengths

• “Almost all of the pupils achieve well” in communication, numeracy, ICT, and Life Skills at OCR entry levels.
• “Almost all of the school leavers... have successfully transitioned to, and maintain their placements in adult services.”
• Pupils spoke “confidently” about enjoying activities such as swimming, ICT, and work experience.
• Class timetables have a “good balance” and are “matched well to the specific needs of the pupils.”
• Governors provide a “balance of support and challenge” and have “detailed knowledge about the life and work of the school.”

Areas to improve

• Evaluations of the school development plan must “reflect more thoroughly and consistently the impact on pupil progress.”
• The school must address accommodation limitations, specifically the “lack of appropriate withdrawal rooms” for pupils with challenging behaviour.
• Unsafe playground equipment, including climbing frames and swings, must be repaired or replaced to allow for outside play.

Safeguarding

The report states that safeguarding arrangements “reflect broadly the guidance from the Department of Education,” though the ETI was unable to fully evaluate their out-workings due to the industrial action.