Elemore Hall School is a multi-site special school located in Durham, catering for pupils aged 11 to 16 with social, emotional, and mental health needs. The school has received a Good rating in its recent inspection, reflecting its commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students. The leadership team has effectively integrated two additional provisions into the school, creating thriving learning spaces that uphold high expectations for both academic and personal development.
The school prioritizes the well-being of its pupils, many of whom have special educational needs and disabilities. Staff members are dedicated to building trusting relationships with students, which fosters a positive learning atmosphere. They provide tailored support to help pupils manage their emotions and behaviors, ensuring that students feel calm and secure while learning. The school’s values promote responsible citizenship, preparing pupils for successful futures.
Elemore Hall School offers a broad curriculum that emphasizes reading and language development. Pupils who struggle with reading receive effective support, enabling them to engage fully with the curriculum. The school has invested in training and resources to enhance early reading skills, and there is evidence of progress among pupils receiving this support. However, there is a need for better communication with parents regarding how they can assist their children with reading at home.
The relationships between staff and pupils are strong, with staff motivating students to engage actively in their learning. Most pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, contributing to a calm environment. The school encourages regular attendance, and many pupils have shown significant improvements since joining. However, some students remain persistently absent, which impacts their learning and development. The school is working to address these attendance issues by collaborating with parents to overcome barriers.
The wider development opportunities provided by the school are comprehensive, including a culture curriculum that encompasses health, relationships, and personal development. Pupils are involved in setting their own targets based on their individual needs, fostering a sense of ownership over their progress. They learn to maintain their mental and physical health through various activities, including working on the school farm and participating in creative and sporting endeavors.
Since its amalgamation with two other schools in 2021, Elemore Hall School has maintained a consistent quality of education across its sites. The governing body is actively engaged in monitoring the curriculum and ensuring its effective implementation. They are aware of the need for modernization in certain areas, such as the Personalised Alternative Curriculum Centre. Staff members report positively on their professional development and the support they receive from leadership, which considers their work-life balance.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The inspection highlighted the need for the school to develop a system that encourages reading outside of school, as some pupils lack consistent opportunities to practice their reading skills. Additionally, addressing the issue of persistent absenteeism remains a priority, as it affects the educational experience of those students.
Overall, Elemore Hall School demonstrates a strong commitment to the education and well-being of its pupils, providing a nurturing environment that supports their academic and personal growth. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory, with ongoing efforts to enhance communication with parents and improve attendance rates.
