Percy Hedley School

Overview

Pupils receive a “rich and fulfilling education” underpinned by an “unrelenting culture of ambition and care.” The school is described as a “calm and orderly place” where staff work tirelessly to overcome barriers for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, enabling them to “achieve exceptionally well.”

Strengths

• Staff identify pupil needs very well, planning “bespoke learning adaptations” across four tailored pathways that support independence and future employment.
• Communication skills are a “key strength,” with pupils confidently using signing, symbols, and digital tools to express their preferences and feelings.
• Reading is a high priority; staff immerse children in stories and use adapted phonics approaches, helping pupils become “increasingly confident and fluent readers.”
• Personal development is “exceptional,” featuring impartial careers guidance, work placements, and creative opportunities like residential visits and school productions.
• Sixth-form students study an “ambitious curriculum” with national accreditations, developing a “strong sense of purpose and belonging.”

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.