Springfield School

Overview

Springfield School has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection. The school is described as a "positive and nurturing place to learn" with a "vibrant community ethos" where pupils feel valued and safe. Leaders have ensured that the curriculum remains ambitious and tailored to individual needs, supporting pupils’ independence and preparation for adult life.

Strengths

• Pupils benefit from "warm, caring relationships" and a "calm" environment where "consistent and high expectations for behaviour" help them feel secure.
• The curriculum is "carefully tailored to pupils’ individual needs," with a strong focus on developing communication skills through methods such as signing, symbols, and sensory stories.
• There is an "unrelenting focus on ensuring that pupils’ opinions are heard," allowing them to share their needs and feelings effectively with attentive staff.
• The school provides "excellent" personal development opportunities, including outdoor adventures, work experience, and running a tuck shop, which build resilience and confidence.
• Most pupils achieve relevant qualifications and are "ready for the next stage in their education, employment or training when they leave."

Areas to improve

• The school should ensure it "fully considers the views of staff, and the impact on workload, when making changes to policy and procedure," as some staff feel insufficiently supported during recent assessment reforms.

Safeguarding

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