Ofsted conducted an urgent inspection of Birtenshaw on 28 February 2024, prompted by concerns regarding the effectiveness of safeguarding arrangements and leadership at the school. The inspection was carried out under section 8 of the Education Act 2005, following established procedures for urgent inspections. The findings indicate that safeguarding at the school is effective, with a strong culture that ensures pupils feel safe and happy. All pupils at Birtenshaw have special educational needs and/or disabilities, and the school is aware of the increased vulnerability associated with these needs. Supportive relationships between staff and pupils facilitate the quick identification and effective management of any welfare concerns.
The school has ensured that several leaders have completed appropriate safer recruitment training, which has equipped them with the knowledge necessary to follow the correct procedures for employing staff who are suitable to work with children. The single central record is compliant, and the school has implemented a range of safeguarding training for staff, including formal induction for new employees and ongoing training for existing staff. This training ensures that all staff understand their responsibilities in keeping children safe and are capable of managing safeguarding concerns effectively.
Detailed records are maintained regarding any concerns about pupils or their families, and these are escalated to appropriate agencies when necessary. The school takes a proactive approach to safeguarding, regularly monitoring pupils' records to identify and address emerging concerns. The curriculum includes numerous opportunities for pupils to learn about safety, including how to navigate their local community safely and how to maintain healthy relationships. The school also provides suitable relationships and sex education, enhancing pupils' ability to keep themselves safe.
Behaviour management is consistent and coherent across the school, with individual behaviour profiles that help staff understand potential triggers and supportive strategies for improving behaviour. Staff are well-trained in the appropriate use of physical restraint, prioritizing distraction and de-escalation techniques. The school keeps detailed records of behaviour incidents and involves parents and carers in discussions about their children's behaviour.
Sufficient staff are deployed to support pupils' behaviour and special educational needs, and routines are well-established to maintain a calm learning environment. The school has robust procedures in place to ensure the safety of absent pupils, with prompt communication to parents and welfare checks when necessary. Governance is strong, with leaders from the Birtenshaw Group providing oversight and support, ensuring that recruitment procedures are followed diligently and that the safeguarding policy is effectively implemented.
The school benefits from the expertise and capacity provided by the Birtenshaw Group, which enhances the oversight of safeguarding practices. Collaboration with internal and external specialists helps staff identify and meet the changing needs of pupils. Overall, the inspection findings reflect a commitment to safeguarding and the well-being of pupils, with effective leadership and management practices in place to support a safe and nurturing environment for all students. The school is well-positioned to continue providing a safe and supportive educational experience for its pupils, ensuring their welfare and development are prioritized.
