Talbot Specialist School is a good school located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, catering for pupils aged 11 to 19 with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has a strong reputation for providing a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and well cared for. Staff members maintain high expectations for all students, ensuring that the curriculum is ambitious and tailored to meet individual needs. The school effectively manages pupil behavior through the establishment of strong relationships between staff and students, which fosters a positive learning atmosphere.
The support for pupils with special educational needs is commendable, with well-trained staff and specialized resources available, including a hydrotherapy pool and trampoline therapy. The school has recently expanded its sixth form to accommodate more students, preparing them well for their future endeavors. Pupils receive instruction on maintaining their health and safety, with dedicated lessons focused on wellbeing. The school has established a culture where pupils feel confident that staff will address any bullying issues that may arise.
Leaders at Talbot Specialist School have ensured that the curriculum aligns with the education, health, and care plan targets for pupils. Many students follow the engagement model, particularly those working below the national curriculum level. Subject leaders are actively developing curriculum plans to enhance the educational experience, although some subjects currently lack clarity on how essential knowledge should be delivered, leading to inconsistencies and increased teacher workload.
Teachers are knowledgeable and passionate about supporting pupils with special educational needs. Lessons are meticulously planned and delivered with high levels of adult support, allowing for frequent checks on pupil understanding. The use of repetition and revisiting concepts in various contexts aids in knowledge retention. Assessment practices are aligned with EHC plan targets, and parents can contribute evidence of home learning through an online system. While staff express enthusiasm for their work, some report that the preparation and assessment processes can be burdensome.
The school provides a range of experiences for pupils, including participation in the Duke of Edinburgh's award scheme and exposure to different cultures through various educational activities. Physical education is a strong aspect of the curriculum, supported by an effective outdoor program that encourages pupil participation in sports clubs outside of school.
Governance at Talbot Specialist School is robust, with governors actively supporting school leaders and ensuring staff wellbeing. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding embedded across the school. Staff receive regular training on safeguarding responsibilities, and there is a clear understanding of the risks pupils may face in the community.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. The medium-term plans for some subjects need to specify how essential knowledge should be taught to enhance consistency and reduce teacher workload. Additionally, the wider curriculum has become less extensive since the COVID-19 pandemic, and leaders should work to provide a rich array of personal development opportunities for all pupils.
Overall, Talbot Specialist School continues to provide a good education for its pupils, with a strong focus on individual needs and wellbeing. The commitment of staff and leadership to continuous improvement is evident, and with targeted efforts to address the identified areas for development, the school is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings further.
