New Fosseway School, located in Hartcliffe, Bristol, is a special school catering for children and young people with severe or profound learning difficulties, serving ages 4 to 19. The school has been recognized as a good institution following its inspection on January 10 and 11, 2023. The pupils express happiness in their school environment, with one student referring to it as their second home. Strong relationships between staff and students contribute to a safe atmosphere where pupils feel comfortable expressing their emotions. The school has a robust anti-bullying culture, with students confident that any issues would be swiftly addressed by staff.
The staff at New Fosseway School are dedicated and ambitious, aiming to foster independence in their pupils and prepare them to be active citizens. The school emphasizes community engagement, providing various opportunities for students to develop social skills, such as working in the school's community café. The curriculum is thoughtfully structured, with staff carefully planning lessons based on pupils' education, health, and care plans. This individualized approach allows for the adaptation of the curriculum to meet the diverse learning needs of the students, enabling them to make significant progress and articulate their learning experiences.
The school excels in developing communication skills among pupils with complex learning needs. Staff employ creative methods, such as musical cues, to enhance communication. The curriculum is broad and well-sequenced, with assessments effectively used to gauge understanding and build on prior knowledge. However, there are areas where the curriculum does not fully meet the needs of all pupils, leading to some not achieving their potential in certain subjects. The sixth form offers an ambitious curriculum that promotes independence, with students enjoying college-based courses that facilitate their transition to further education.
Reading instruction is a priority at New Fosseway School, with a systematic phonics program in place. Pupils engage with texts that align with their phonetic knowledge, fostering fluency and accuracy in reading. The school has also implemented a new behavior system that focuses on understanding the reasons behind pupils' behavior, leading to improved conduct and a reduction in incidents of poor behavior.
Personal development is a notable strength of the school, with staff committed to preparing pupils for successful adult lives. The school has established numerous partnerships with local businesses and cultural organizations, enriching the pupils' experiences and broadening their understanding of the world. Additionally, the school employs various therapists to support the physical and mental health of its students.
Staff members appreciate the support and consideration shown by school leaders regarding their workload and well-being. The governing body is actively involved in the school's operations, holding leaders accountable for their responsibilities. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of safety established within the school. Staff are well-trained and aware of the procedures to follow if concerns arise, ensuring that pupils feel secure and supported.
While New Fosseway School has many strengths, there is a need for ongoing development of the curriculum to ensure it consistently meets the learning needs of all pupils. This will help to maximize the progress that every student can achieve. Overall, the school continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
