Watling View School, located in St Albans, Hertfordshire, is a special school catering for pupils aged two to nineteen with severe and profound learning difficulties. The school has been recognized as a good institution, with a recent inspection confirming its status. Pupils at Watling View School express enjoyment in their educational experience, feeling happy and well cared for. The school effectively addresses the complex learning and medical needs of its students, fostering their development in learning, communication, and social skills. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the school's approach, highlighting the dedication of the staff and the supportive environment that resembles a family unit.
The school maintains a positive atmosphere, with no reported incidents of bullying. Pupils demonstrate good behavior and are encouraged to recognize and manage their emotions, with staff providing support when needed. The school offers a variety of opportunities for pupils to engage in community projects, which help build their confidence and encourage them to meet the high expectations set by the staff. Each pupil's individual needs are carefully documented and addressed, ensuring that they are prepared for the next stages of their lives after leaving the school.
In the early years, children settle in well and develop essential communication skills through various methods, including signs, symbols, and speech. The curriculum emphasizes independence and social skills, although there is a noted need for pupils to have more opportunities to navigate the school environment independently. Reading is integrated into the curriculum using diverse resources, and while some pupils are making progress, there is a need for more consistent opportunities to enhance their reading skills across all subjects.
The curriculum includes practical experiences, such as running a local café and participating in community events, which help pupils develop real-life skills. The school also encourages involvement in drama and other creative activities, contributing to the overall confidence of the students. As pupils progress through their education, they are prepared for transitions to local colleges, with a focus on responsible behavior and effective communication in public settings.
Leadership at Watling View School is committed to meeting the needs of each pupil and is actively engaged in evaluating and improving the curriculum. The governing body supports the school's priorities and provides a balance of challenge and support to the leadership team. Safeguarding measures are robust, with all staff trained to ensure the safety of pupils. The school has established a dedicated team to provide additional support for families in need, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary help when required.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to enhance the challenge for pupils who can read at various levels and ensure that reading skills are utilized across all lessons. Additionally, there is a need to promote greater independence among pupils by allowing more freedom of movement within the school. Overall, Watling View School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils, with ongoing efforts to enhance its provision and meet the diverse needs of its students.
