Oaklands School

Overview

Oaklands School has taken effective action to maintain the high standards identified at its previous inspection, which judged it outstanding for overall effectiveness. The report describes the school as a "happy place where pupils thrive," noting that leaders have successfully maintained "extremely high standards" despite significant expansion to a new site and an increased pupil population.

Strengths

• The curriculum is "excellent" and carefully designed from pupils' "different starting points" to support independence and communication.
• Staff are "highly skilled" at using varied communication methods and sensory experiences to make learning "memorable" and accessible.
• Pupils make considerable progress in communication, knowledge, and well-being, becoming "more independent" and well-prepared for future life steps.
• Close collaboration with health professionals ensures pupils’ needs are fully met, supporting outcomes in their education, health and care plans.
• Staff feel "well developed and happy," with positive regard for how the school considers their workload and well-being.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.