White Rocks Farm College At Rooks Hill Farm

Overview

White Rocks Farm is an independent specialist college providing land-based education for young people with special educational needs and disabilities. The report describes a setting where learners "flourish" in "calm and idyllic farm environments," benefiting from high staff expectations and personalised curricula that significantly improve attendance and self-confidence.

Strengths

• Learners demonstrate "exemplary" behaviour and attitudes, taking responsibility for animal welfare tasks such as caring for ducks and chickens.
• Staff provide "kind and nurturing support," helping learners who previously struggled in statutory education to build skills and express their views.
• Tutors use effective strategies, including demonstrations and group discussions, to teach vocational subjects like horse care and woodwork.
• Leaders ensure access to specialist therapies, including art therapy and counselling, to help learners manage anxieties and engage with learning.
• Governors provide "good oversight," supporting improvements such as investing in a new equine centre.

Areas to improve

• Provide training to enhance staff teaching and assessment skills, as current opportunities are limited.
• Increase external work experience placements so learners can experience work beyond the farm environment.
• Improve assessment in English and mathematics to better identify gaps and adapt teaching accordingly.

Safeguarding

The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective," noting that learners feel safe and know who to talk to if they have concerns.