The Link School

Overview

The report describes a special school where “pupils’ positive well-being is central to everything this school does.” Staff build strong, purposeful relationships to personalise learning, helping pupils develop resilience, independence, and confidence. The school successfully supports pupils, many of whom have had negative prior educational experiences, to re-engage with education and manage their emotions effectively.

Strengths

• “Behaviour and attitudes” and “personal development” are judged as Outstanding, with staff empowering pupils to “make choices, build independence and express their feelings.”
• The curriculum is “ambitious and well ordered,” with staff skilfully encouraging engagement through tailored goals and activities that interest and motivate pupils.
• Staff effectively help pupils to “re-engage with their education” through individualised attendance plans and therapeutic activities, leading to improved regular attendance.
• The school provides “meaningful educational experiences” beyond the classroom, including community visits and overnight stays, which support preparation for adulthood.
• A “multi-agency team” ensures staff have the expertise to support pupils’ communication and behaviour, resulting in learning that proceeds with “minimal interruption.”

Areas to improve

• The school must ensure it “identifies and embeds appropriate accreditation pathways” for sixth-form students, as current opportunities are limited and reduce gains for older pupils.

Safeguarding

The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”