The Shrubberies School, located in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on April 17 and 18, 2024. The school prioritizes the social, emotional, and mental health development of its pupils, fostering a safe and supportive environment where respectful relationships between staff and students are paramount. Pupils are encouraged to communicate their needs effectively and learn to manage their emotions, which contributes to their overall happiness and safety within the school setting.
The curriculum at The Shrubberies School has been recently revised, focusing on essential life skills and personal development. The school emphasizes the importance of preparing pupils for adulthood from the moment they start their education. This includes a variety of enrichment activities that extend beyond the classroom, such as learning to ride bikes, gardening, and cooking. These activities not only enhance pupils' confidence and independence but also celebrate their achievements through initiatives like the 'Wendy Wiggle.'
While the school has made significant strides in implementing its new curriculum pathways, there are areas that require further development. Some subjects have seen effective implementation, particularly in physical education and personal, social, health, and economic education. However, in certain areas, the curriculum pathways are incomplete, leading to insufficient checks on pupils' knowledge and skills. This gap can hinder the ability of teachers to provide adequate support for pupils to secure their understanding of key concepts.
The school has high expectations for all pupils, encouraging them to aspire to future opportunities through a well-structured careers curriculum. Pupils engage in real-life experiences, such as travel training and work placements, which help them understand the options available to them after leaving school. The sixth-form students have the opportunity to apply for in-house jobs, further enhancing their practical skills and readiness for the workforce.
Health and well-being are also central to the school's ethos. Pupils participate in regular physical activities and therapies, which promote a healthy lifestyle and contribute to their mental well-being. The school recognizes the importance of resilience and self-care, providing pupils with the tools they need to manage their health effectively. For those with medical needs, the school collaborates with external agencies to ensure appropriate support is available.
Behaviour among pupils is generally positive, with staff trained to support students who may experience anxiety or distress. The school has established a culture of high expectations regarding behaviour, which is reinforced by the staff's understanding of each pupil's individual needs.
The governing body plays a crucial role in supporting the school in fulfilling its statutory duties, including those outlined in the Equality Act 2010. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. Staff need further support to develop their understanding of the revised curriculum to enhance their assessment practices. This will enable them to better identify pupils' next steps in learning and ensure that all students receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally.
Overall, The Shrubberies School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils, with a strong focus on personal development, well-being, and preparing students for their future. The commitment to fostering a positive learning atmosphere and addressing the individual needs of pupils is commendable, and ongoing efforts to refine the curriculum will further enhance the school's effectiveness.
