Stephenson Academy

Overview

Stephenson Academy is a special school for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs, where staff build "warm, professional and trusting relationships" to help pupils feel safe. The report highlights that pupils are "well prepared for their next stages of learning" and achieve well, supported by a curriculum tailored to individual needs. However, irregular attendance remains a significant challenge, with many pupils struggling to attend regularly due to anxiety and complex needs.

Strengths

• Staff use knowledge of pupils’ special educational needs and disabilities to adapt teaching, ensuring pupils "learn effectively" and achieve qualifications.
• The curriculum is "broad, balanced" and prioritises reading, writing, and life skills, including personal, social and health education.
• Behaviour is "typically calm," with staff skilled at helping pupils reset when they lose control of their emotions.
• Leaders have an "accurate view" of the school’s strengths, and staff benefit from initiatives supporting their well-being.

Areas to improve

• The school must revise its approach to supporting vulnerable pupils to access education, as many do not attend regularly enough to fully benefit from the provision.

Safeguarding

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