Applebee Wood Community Specialist School, located in Lostock Hall, Preston, Lancashire, underwent an ungraded inspection on February 7 and 8, 2023. The overall judgement of the school remains good, although evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a lower rating. The next inspection will be a graded one.
Pupils at Applebee Wood enjoy their time at school, receiving a warm welcome from staff and engaging with friends upon arrival. The positive atmosphere fostered by school leaders helps students feel safe and settled. They actively participate in a variety of clubs and activities that promote personal development, such as cheerleading, sports, and trips to local venues, which enhance their independence and communication skills. Staff members are dedicated to nurturing each pupil's interests and abilities, maintaining high expectations for their achievements.
However, there are concerns regarding the early years and pupils at the early stages of learning. Leaders have not ensured that staff possess the necessary knowledge to effectively deliver the curriculum for these groups, resulting in some pupils not learning as they should. While pupils trust the adults in the school and feel comfortable discussing concerns, there are instances of low-level disruption due to disengagement in learning activities.
The school has developed a broad and ambitious curriculum that meets the specific needs of most pupils. Teachers generally select activities that help pupils retain knowledge, but this is not consistently the case for younger children and those in the early stages of learning. Insufficient support and training for staff in these areas have led to challenges in ensuring that pupils achieve their potential.
In contrast, assessment strategies in the rest of the school are effectively utilized to gauge understanding and inform future learning. Pupils earn nationally recognized qualifications, including GCSEs and vocational awards. Reading is prioritized, with teachers immersing pupils in various texts and using creative methods to enhance comprehension and communication skills. The school library is well-resourced and valued by students.
Pupils have numerous opportunities to explore their interests, such as participating in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, which fosters resilience and teamwork. They also engage in community activities, including singing at local events and participating in residential trips that create lasting memories.
Leaders prepare pupils for adulthood by providing information about further education and career options. Careers fairs and travel training help students gain independence and prepare for future employment. The school promotes understanding of different cultures and positive relationships through various activities and trips.
Most classes exhibit good behavior, with staff effectively supporting pupils in managing their emotions. Staff morale is high, and leaders are mindful of workload and well-being. However, governors have not fully grasped the quality of education in the early years or alternative provisions, which has affected their ability to hold leaders accountable.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns promptly. Pupils learn about safety in various contexts, and parents receive support regarding online safety.
To improve, leaders must ensure that staff working with early years and early-stage learners have the expertise needed to deliver the curriculum effectively. This will help all pupils achieve better outcomes. Additionally, governors should enhance their oversight to ensure that all pupils receive a high-quality education.
