Saxon Wood School, located in Basingstoke, Hampshire, underwent an inspection on May 23 and 24, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school caters to pupils with complex and profound special educational needs, providing a supportive and nurturing environment. The inspection highlighted that pupils are happy to attend the school, with parents noting their children's enthusiasm for learning. The morning routines are well-organized, allowing for a smooth transition into the school day, and staff are adept at addressing individual health and care needs, which helps pupils settle quickly into their learning.
The school fosters a culture where every pupil is recognized as a unique individual, and there is a strong emphasis on communication. Leaders and staff collaborate closely with therapists to ensure that pupils can express themselves effectively. The atmosphere within the school is calm and purposeful, with pupils demonstrating considerate attitudes towards one another. They readily assist their classmates, contributing to a positive and inclusive environment. Staff build trusting relationships with pupils, who feel safe and supported in their learning endeavors. The pupils exhibit a strong work ethic and take pride in their achievements, celebrating both their own and their peers' successes.
Leaders at Saxon Wood School have high aspirations for their pupils, ensuring that there are no limits placed on what they can achieve. The curriculum has been thoroughly reviewed to align with the identified needs of the pupils, with a focus on embedding core subjects such as English and mathematics. However, some foundation subjects are still under development, and there is a need for more consistent planning in these areas. The assessment systems are also in the process of being refined, as the small steps in learning required for each pupil have not yet been clearly defined across the curriculum. This can lead to situations where pupils do not have sufficient time to consolidate their learning before progressing.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with phonics instruction being a well-established part of the curriculum for those ready to learn. Pupils enjoy these lessons and gradually become independent readers. The early years curriculum encourages curiosity and exploration, with staff actively seeking opportunities to enhance children's understanding of the world. A variety of enrichment activities are being integrated into the curriculum, and pupils are enthusiastic about participating in horse-riding lessons, reflecting on their progress and learning important skills.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with staff trained to recognize signs of risk and to support pupils' welfare. Leaders maintain close relationships with families and other professionals to ensure that pupils receive the necessary support. The school community is characterized by kindness and patience, with pupils demonstrating these values in their interactions with one another.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to continue developing the wider curriculum to ensure that important knowledge and skills are clearly identified across all subjects. Additionally, a coherent assessment system that articulates the small steps of progress for pupils is essential to help them consolidate their learning effectively. Overall, Saxon Wood School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a commitment to continuous improvement in their educational journey.
