The Orchards

Overview

This ungraded inspection found that the school’s work “may have improved significantly across all areas” since its previous rating. Consequently, the next inspection will be a graded one. The report describes a supportive environment where pupils “thrive” and achieve excellently through a highly personalised curriculum tailored to their complex needs.

Strengths

• Pupils’ behaviour is described as “exceptional,” with staff highly skilled in supporting emotions and building strong relationships.
• The curriculum is “highly personalised,” with targets from education, health and care plans “interwoven seamlessly” to help pupils gain independence.
• Staff possess “impressive, in-depth knowledge” of how pupils learn, adapting activities with precision to ensure successful access to learning.
• There is a strong focus on communication, with pupils achieving “exceptionally well” in reading and using aids effectively.
• Attendance improves notably over time, supported by clear routines and collaboration with parents and wider services.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.