The St Francis Special School, Lincoln

Overview

The St Francis Special School continues to be an outstanding school, providing a "very calm and inclusive environment" where pupils thrive. Staff maintain "the highest expectations for all pupils" and demonstrate "great care," ensuring that learners feel safe, happy, and well-supported in their personal and academic development.

Strengths

• The curriculum is "very ambitious" and "highly personalised" to meet individual needs, helping pupils prepare effectively for their next stages.
• Pupils display "exemplary" behaviour, modelling values such as "respect, perseverance, kindness, independence and teamwork."
• Staff expertly adapt teaching methods and provide close support, particularly for pupils in the pre-formal and informal curriculums, fostering engagement and confidence.
• Leaders prioritise staff well-being and workload, creating a supportive culture where staff feel valued and well-trained.
• Personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education is central to the school’s work, helping pupils understand difference, respect others, and prepare for life beyond school.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff being "highly vigilant of pupils’ welfare" and responsive to any concerns, particularly regarding pupils who are unable to communicate using speech.