The Willows School

Overview

The Willows School is described as a "happy, friendly and exciting place to be" where pupils, many of whom have faced previous educational disruptions, "flourish" in both academic and personal development. The report highlights the "dedication, expertise and kindness of all staff" as central to pupils settling well and building trusting relationships.

Strengths

• Staff possess an "in-depth understanding of what each pupil needs," allowing them to skilfully adjust teaching and sort out gaps in prior knowledge.
• The "ambitious and imaginative curriculum" enables pupils to build knowledge securely, with high-quality texts inspiring reflection on wider issues such as diversity.
• Reading is given "high priority," with pupils enjoying phonics support, one-to-one sessions, and the "newly extended library."
• Pupils benefit from "thoughtful and well-planned" enrichment classes, including gardening, cooking, and drumming, which help develop their talents.
• Positive behaviour is fostered through clear rules and incentives, such as earning points for the school shop, while lunchtimes and assemblies are described as "happy occasions."

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

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