Alt Bridge School, located in Huyton, Liverpool, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good, with outstanding ratings in personal development and sixth-form provision. The school caters to pupils aged 11 to 19, all of whom have special educational needs and/or disabilities. The inspection, conducted from October 11 to 12, 2023, marked the first routine evaluation since the COVID-19 pandemic and the first graded inspection in 13 years, following a previous outstanding rating.
Pupils at Alt Bridge School express a strong sense of belonging and appreciation for the supportive environment fostered by staff. The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by care and understanding, contributing to a positive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and happy. The school excels in pastoral care, ensuring that pupils' emotional and social needs are met. This supportive environment is complemented by a wide range of extracurricular activities that promote character development and life skills, including outdoor activities and community engagement.
The school has high expectations for pupil achievement across various subjects, and many pupils respond positively to these expectations, achieving commendable results. The curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to meet the individual needs of pupils, with a focus on breadth and depth. In the sixth form, the curriculum is particularly well-structured, allowing students to develop a deep understanding of their subjects and preparing them effectively for adulthood.
Teachers at Alt Bridge School demonstrate strong subject knowledge, particularly in the sixth form, where they create engaging learning resources that facilitate student success. Assessment strategies are generally effective, enabling teachers to gauge pupils' understanding and inform future learning. However, there are some areas where assessment practices are underdeveloped, which can hinder the identification of learning gaps. In contrast, assessment in the sixth form is highly effective, allowing for precise tracking of student progress.
Reading is prioritized across the curriculum, and pupils have shown a marked improvement in their attitudes towards reading. The school carefully selects high-quality texts that broaden pupils' cultural understanding. Pupils display positive attitudes towards their learning, maintaining focus and engagement during lessons. The exemplary behavior of sixth-form students further reflects the school's high standards.
The personal development curriculum is robust, providing pupils with opportunities to become active citizens. The school emphasizes the importance of tolerance and understanding of diversity, including religious diversity. Pupils are educated about the impact of negative relationships on their physical and mental health, fostering a secure understanding of well-being.
Governance and leadership at Alt Bridge School are effective, with leaders maintaining oversight of educational quality and providing staff with ongoing training and development opportunities. While the school generally engages well with parents, some parents feel inadequately informed about their child's progress, indicating an area for improvement in communication.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. Overall, Alt Bridge School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education tailored to the needs of its pupils, with a strong emphasis on personal development and community engagement. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory, with clear areas identified for further enhancement in assessment practices and parent communication.
