Co-op Academy Delius

Overview

Co-op Academy Delius is a split-site special school for pupils with complex special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The inspection confirms that the school continues to be a good school, providing an ambitious curriculum tailored to individual learning pathways. Leaders have designed a well-resourced environment where staff act as strong advocates for pupils, ensuring high-quality support and effective preparation for future steps.

Strengths

• The curriculum is "designed well to meet the needs of pupils with SEND," with clear knowledge and skills outlined for each learning pathway.
• Staff are "well-trained" and use specialist equipment, including a hydrotherapy pool and assistive technology, to support individual needs effectively.
• Phonics teaching has been strengthened, with dedicated daily lessons helping pupils build phonic knowledge and communication skills.
• Behaviour is managed well, creating a "calm and orderly" environment where pupils feel safe and bullying is effectively addressed.
• The school offers a "rich personal development offer," including extra-curricular activities and opportunities for pupils to debate issues and learn about consent.

Areas to improve

• The school should ensure staff provide consistent opportunities for pupils to develop legible handwriting and clear presentation of written work, as some most able pupils write illegibly.
• The school should continue to strengthen its partnership with all parents to ensure concerns are addressed promptly and that they feel involved in their child’s development.

Safeguarding

The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective," with staff having a secure understanding of their responsibilities and being kept up to date with training.