Langside School

Overview

Langside School has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection. The report describes the school as a “very special place” that provides a “first-rate holistic experience” for pupils with special educational needs and complex medical needs. Pupils thrive in a warm atmosphere where staff deliver individualised curriculums and consistent routines.

Strengths

• Staff provide “individualised curriculums that are rich and broad” and facilitate pupils’ curiosity and engagement “superbly”.
• Multidisciplinary teams work closely to deliver therapies and support, enabling pupils to manage medical conditions effectively and make “great progress”.
• The school champions communication, teaching pupils to use assistive technologies and signs to “show greater independence” and advocate for themselves.
• Parents note the “distinct difference” the school’s coordinated approach makes, praising the “sincere care and ongoing support” from staff.
• Preparation for independence is prioritised, with older pupils working towards the ‘Our personal transition (OPT) award’ through adventurous activities and charity work.

Areas to improve

• The school and governors must ensure all required school policies are kept up to date, although this does not currently present a risk to pupils.
• The relationships and sex and health education policy is incomplete; the associated curriculum programme does not set out clearly enough what will be taught and when, limiting oversight of pupil progress.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.