The Pines Special School

Overview

The inspection confirms that The Pines Special School has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection. The report describes a welcoming environment characterised by "positive relationships" and an "infectious positivity," where pupils are happy and feel a "tangible sense of pride." Staff demonstrate a deep understanding of autism, ensuring activities are accessible and achievable for all pupils.

Strengths

• The school has designed an "ambitious and intelligently structured curriculum" with personalised learning journeys that place "no ceilings" on pupil achievement.
• Staff possess "strong subject knowledge" and successfully adapt teaching for pupils with special educational needs, including those who are pre-verbal.
• The approach to developing communication skills is a strength, using pictures and symbols effectively to ensure "all pupils have a voice."
• Pupils behave well and are polite, with disruption being rare due to diligent supervision and quick support from staff.
• The school provides effective therapeutic support for mental health and maintains a "highly positive reputation" across the city.

Areas to improve

• The school should develop how it quality assures provision to address inconsistencies in curriculum implementation, such as how teachers emphasise key vocabulary.
• Leaders need to ensure teachers receive necessary support to "maximise pupils’ learning in every lesson" and make best use of teaching time.

Safeguarding

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