Hazel Oak School, located in Shirley, Solihull, is a special school that caters to students aged 4 to 19 with a range of educational needs, including moderate learning difficulties, speech and language difficulties, and autism spectrum disorder. The school has been recognized for its outstanding performance across various aspects, including leadership, teaching quality, personal development, behavior, and pupil outcomes. The leadership team, including governors, demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering an environment where both pupils and staff can thrive. Their strategic direction is focused on improving life chances for all students, and they maintain a relentless pursuit of continuous improvement.
The curriculum at Hazel Oak is innovative and tailored to meet the diverse needs of its pupils. Leaders regularly review and adapt the curriculum to ensure it remains relevant and effective. Teachers possess a deep understanding of their subjects and employ effective strategies to enhance pupils' literacy and numeracy skills. While there is a strong emphasis on mathematics, there is an ongoing effort to further integrate literacy skills across all subjects. The teaching staff, including support staff, are highly skilled and maintain high expectations for their pupils, resulting in substantial progress in both academic and personal development.
Pupil behavior is exemplary, contributing to a positive and respectful school atmosphere. Students express happiness and enjoyment in their school experience, and strong relationships among staff and pupils foster a sense of community. The school prioritizes the welfare of its pupils, with a robust support system in place that includes collaboration with external agencies. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring that all pupils feel safe and supported.
The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities that promote spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. Pupils engage in various activities that enhance their life skills and personal growth. The post-16 provision is particularly focused on maximizing students' potential, with a commitment to helping them gain independence and improve their life chances. The leadership in this area is proactive, having negotiated for the post-16 provision to move to a local college, which will expand the curriculum and provide better facilities.
Outcomes for pupils are strong, with many achieving qualifications in core subjects. The school tracks progress meticulously, ensuring that all pupils, regardless of their background, make significant strides in their education. The emphasis on personalized learning means that the curriculum is continually adjusted to meet the evolving needs of students. The school also places a strong emphasis on preparing pupils for their future, with career education integrated into the curriculum from an early age.
Overall, Hazel Oak School exemplifies excellence in special education, providing a nurturing and effective learning environment that supports the diverse needs of its pupils. The commitment to continuous improvement, high-quality teaching, and a strong focus on personal development ensures that all students are well-prepared for their next steps in education and life. The school community is characterized by mutual respect, support, and a shared vision for success, making it a model for other educational institutions.
