Wood Bank School, located in Luddenden, Halifax, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 17 and 18, 2024. The school caters to pupils with a diverse and often complex range of needs, all of whom have an education, health, and care plan. The school's motto, from strong roots we grow and blossom, reflects its commitment to fostering individual growth and development. The curriculum is ambitious and tailored to meet the unique needs of each pupil, ensuring that they receive a personalized education.
Positive relationships between staff and pupils are a hallmark of Wood Bank School. Staff members provide support in a caring and calm manner, particularly when pupils exhibit challenging behavior due to their specific needs. Pupils feel confident that any incidents of bullying are addressed promptly by staff, and they have access to trusted adults for support when needed. The vigilance of the staff is commendable, as they possess a strong understanding of the vulnerabilities associated with special educational needs and disabilities. Concerns about pupils are reported consistently, regardless of their perceived significance.
The school offers a variety of activities, including forest school, music therapy, and sensory storytelling, which enhance pupils' experiences and help develop their confidence and skills. Individuality is celebrated and nurtured within the school environment. Recently, the curriculum has been organized into four pathways: discover, develop, engage, and explore. Teachers effectively assess pupils upon their entry to ensure they are placed on the appropriate pathway, utilizing visual aids, sensory equipment, and practical activities to support learning.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects within the more formal curriculum pathway, the school has not clearly identified the essential knowledge and vocabulary that pupils need to learn and retain. This oversight means that some pupils may be capable of more challenging work. Additionally, while the school has made strides in promoting reading, there are instances where the reading materials provided do not align well with pupils' reading abilities. This misalignment can hinder progress, and some pupils lack opportunities to practice reading at home.
The school has identified low attendance as a persistent issue, with some pupils missing crucial learning opportunities. Although barriers to attendance are recognized, the school's response to these challenges has not been sufficiently swift or analytical. The curriculum also emphasizes essential knowledge for keeping pupils safe, and when specific input is required, tailored support is provided. Plans are in place to broaden the understanding of various religious festivals to enhance cultural awareness.
Governance at Wood Bank School is effective, with governors providing both challenge and support to school leaders. They utilize reports and external information to verify the school's context and performance. Staff members generally feel well-supported, and recent changes to assessment systems have alleviated some workload pressures. The school has implemented a comprehensive early career teacher program to ensure that new teachers receive specialized training for working with pupils with complex needs.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. Overall, while Wood Bank School continues to be a good school, addressing the identified areas for improvement will further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
