Harford Manor School in Norwich has undergone an inspection on June 6 and 7, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. The school caters to pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, providing a supportive environment where students build positive relationships with adults and engage in a personalised curriculum that lays a strong foundation for their future.
The staff at Harford Manor School are attentive to the individual needs of each pupil, including those in the sixth form. Clear behavioural expectations are established, and pupils receive sensitive support to make positive choices. They become accustomed to routines and utilize personal toolkits to manage their emotions and conduct. Staff are proactive in de-escalating situations when pupils experience anxiety or distress. During break and lunchtime, pupils continue their learning through engaging activities and play, demonstrating their ability to manage behaviour and interact positively with peers.
Pupils feel safe at the school and report minimal instances of bullying. They know they can turn to trusted staff for support if they feel uneasy. The school provides ample opportunities for pupils to engage with the local community, enhancing their learning experiences through visits to supermarkets and participation in charity work.
Leaders at Harford Manor School are effectively navigating a period of change in staffing and governance. They have restructured the curriculum based on the Harford Strands, although some strand leaders have yet to complete their reviews of the impact of their work. The curriculum is generally well-established and tailored to meet the needs of pupils, with leaders committed to ensuring that each pupil receives an education that addresses their individual requirements. Personalised learning goals are developed with input from various stakeholders, and teachers adapt the curriculum accordingly.
The My Communication strand is a key component of the curriculum, taught with clarity and enthusiasm. Teachers incorporate various approaches to support pupils, many of whom enter the school with limited verbal communication skills. This focus on communication helps pupils make significant progress. Additionally, pupils are exposed to books, stories, and songs, with early reading support provided through a phonics scheme. However, the support for more confident readers, particularly in the sixth form, could be more precise.
While teachers generally select engaging activities and resources, there are instances where the chosen approaches do not align well with pupils' needs, leading to a loss of focus and slower progress. Many pupils initially struggle with behaviour regulation, but skilled staff help them recognize and manage their emotions, resulting in improved behaviour and increased engagement over time.
Pupils benefit from high-quality pastoral care, learning essential strategies for safety, self-care, and social interactions. Older pupils receive appropriate career advice and practical knowledge about adulthood, preparing them for future independence. The governing body provides effective support and challenge to school leaders, and staff appreciate the consideration given to their workload and well-being.
While many parents express positive views about the school, some have raised concerns regarding communication. Leaders have implemented various communication methods to engage with parents about their children's education and welfare. The safeguarding arrangements at Harford Manor School are effective, with thorough training for staff and clear reporting procedures in place. Pupils receive important lessons on personal safety, including online safety and privacy.
To improve, the school should ensure that all strand leaders complete their reviews of curriculum delivery and evaluate how well the curriculum, particularly in reading for advanced readers, is being taught. Providing staff with guidance to deliver the curriculum effectively across all subjects will further enhance the educational experience for pupils.
