Highbury School

Overview

Highbury School is confirmed as an ‘outstanding school’ following an ungraded inspection. The report describes the institution as an ‘inspirational school’ where pupils experience ‘joy and happiness’ within an ‘overwhelming atmosphere of care and respect’. Leaders tailor an ‘ambitious curriculum’ for every pupil, ensuring education is ‘precisely matched to pupils’ needs’ across all sites.

Strengths

• The curriculum is ‘carefully constructed’ with ‘careful cross-curricular links’ that help pupils apply learning to ‘real-life situations’.
• Behaviour support is ‘exceptional’, with leaders identifying causes of barriers to learning and providing clear actions that positively impact family life.
• Staff relationships are ‘warm and caring’, with adults adopting ‘consistent approaches’ that help pupils ‘flourish’.
• The school environment is designed to immerse pupils in language and routines, with provision ‘exactly the right’ for each class’s specific needs.
• Staff well-being is prioritised through therapeutic support, fostering a strong sense of ‘community and collegiality’.

Areas to improve

The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are ‘effective’, with the school creating an ‘open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts pupils’ interests first’.