John F Kennedy Special School

Overview

John F Kennedy Special School continues to be an outstanding school, providing a happy and safe environment where pupils feel secure. Leaders ensure that the school caters effectively to the diverse needs and ages of pupils across its multiple sites, supporting them to settle quickly and preparing them well for their next stage of education.

Strengths

• Staff have "high expectations for pupils’ achievement" and know pupils "extremely well," fostering a "high level of trust."
• The curriculum is "well sequenced," allowing pupils to build knowledge in "small steps" with "fine-tuned personalised opportunities."
• Reading is "systematically taught through phonics," with access to "high-quality texts" and an online programme for non-fiction.
• Leaders provide strong support for staff, who report the school is a "‘happy place’," with regular coaching to ensure consistency.
• Pupils are well prepared for independence or further education, with skills tailored to their individual needs and future pathways.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with "strong and consistent systems" in place across all sites, regular staff training, and close collaboration with other agencies to support pupils and families.