Pride as Ofsted 'validates' work of special school

AN inspector has praised the support from a school for children with special educational needs that enables them to learn "exceptionally well".

Inspectors who made a short visit to Culverhill School in Yate confirmed its 'good' rating, but were so impressed they said it would probably be upgraded to “outstanding” if a full inspection was carried out.

The school in Kelston Close has 146 pupils, aged from seven to 16, with complex learning difficulties or disabilities, who attend from across South Gloucestershire and some neighbouring districts.

New head Chris Walker, who was promoted from the role of deputy head last September, said he was "extraordinarily proud" of his team and the work they do.

He said: "Our recent Ofsted result has validated the work we do and gives our school community the confidence to accelerate and support our incredible pupils' ambitions.

"Our pupils often return later in life presenting as wellrounded, successful people, and we are very proud of this."

The Ofsted report said the school, which is part of the Enable Trust, was 'good' in all areas, including the effectiveness of leadership and management, the quality of teaching, learning, and assessment, and the personal development, behaviour, and welfare of pupils.

Inspector Susan Aykin said the inspection, which took place in October, showed pupils at Culverhill School feel safe and happy, and make progress through their love of learning.

She said the school's curriculum was designed to

Half-hourly

HALF-hourly train services linking Yate to Bristol and Gloucester could be up and running by May.

Rail Minister Huw Merriman said the Great Western Railway service would be doubled from one to two trains per hour in each direction as part of the region's MetroWest rail improvement scheme. The announcement was made at a

Culverhill School head teacher

Chris Walker with Year 8, 9 and 10 pupils in the school's sensory garden meet the needs of pupils with additional needs and that it inspired pupils to be the best version of themselves and prepared them for life beyond school.

The inspector said: "Leaders, staff and governors share a highly aspirational vision for all pupils.

"They have designed an ambitious curriculum that enables pupils to succeed academically, socially and emotionally.

"Pupils' education, health and care plans (EHC) are central to the design and teaching of the curriculum.

"As a result, all pupils receive bespoke support that enables them to learn exceptionally well.”

The report also highlighted the quality of teaching at the school, stating that teachers are highly skilled and knowledgeable and that they create a "positive and inclusive learning environment".

The report also highlighted the effectiveness of leadership and management at the school, stating that leaders have a clear vision for the school and are highly effective in ensuring that the school's vision is translated into action.

Chair of governors Gill Edgington praised the dedication and attentiveness of the school's staff and the curriculum they have developed.

She said: "Our staff are very dedicated and attentive to each pupil and their individual complex needs.

"The curriculum, developed by the school, inspires each pupil to be the best version of themselves as well as preparing them for life beyond school."