Oakleigh School & Acorn Assessment Centre

Overview

This ungraded inspection confirms that Oakleigh School & Acorn Assessment Centre has "taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection." The report describes the school as a "very special place" where pupils "flourish" within an "exceptional, nurturing environment." Leaders and staff provide high-quality, personalised education that enables pupils with complex needs to learn and behave "exceedingly well."

Strengths

• Staff demonstrate "high ambitions" for pupils, ensuring "no barrier is too high to climb" through tailored support such as sensory stimuli and alternative communication aids.
• The curriculum is structured into three pathways that are "highly personalised," incorporating pupils’ education, health and care plan outcomes seamlessly.
• "Warm, close relationships" between staff and pupils allow staff to "readily read moods, wants and needs," creating a "calm and purposeful atmosphere."
• The school offers "substantial support to parents," including workshops and counselling, helping families feel "supported and involved."
• Governors "challenge leaders robustly" and possess a "deep understanding of the school," securing an education of the "highest quality."

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."