Halesbury School

Overview

Halesbury School is described as an “oasis of calm” where leaders provide “calm and steady leadership” for pupils with complex needs. The report highlights a “uniquely calm and positive atmosphere” driven by consistent routines and a “kindness approach” that makes bullying “extremely rare.”

Strengths

• Attendance and behaviour are rated at a “Strong standard,” with leaders taking a supportive approach to “embrace the whole family” and using preventative strategies to manage behaviour.
• Inclusion is rated at a “Strong standard,” with staff using education, health and care plans effectively to ensure every child is valued and receives tailored support.
• Personal development is rated at a “Strong standard,” with a curriculum that prepares pupils for life beyond school through community links and a focus on emotional regulation.
• Safeguarding standards are met, creating an “open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.”

Areas to improve

• Leaders should support staff to ensure curriculum subjects are delivered consistently, as the focus on manageable learning steps is “not consistent” in some areas.
• The writing curriculum needs refinement to provide a “more logical sequence” for building important skills.
• The governing body should strengthen its oversight to “consistently and robustly support school improvement.”

Safeguarding

The report states that safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an open culture where concerns are actively identified and managed, ensuring pupils are made safer and feel safe.