Springhead School, located in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, has been recognized as an outstanding institution following its recent inspection on June 21 and 22, 2023. The school caters to a diverse range of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, creating an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. Leaders at Springhead School have established a culture of high expectations, ensuring that all pupils feel valued, safe, and heard. The school promotes a sense of pride among students, who are eager to share their achievements and successes.
Pupil behavior is exemplary, with staff providing subtle and effective support to help students manage their emotions. This approach minimizes disruptions to learning and fosters greater independence and self-regulation as pupils progress through their education. The school environment is calm and purposeful, characterized by laughter and music that resonate throughout the corridors. Pupils demonstrate a clear understanding of bullying and report that it is not an issue at the school. They feel confident that staff will listen to their concerns and provide assistance when needed, ensuring that all students are treated with respect and dignity.
Communication is a fundamental aspect of the school’s ethos and curriculum. From the Nursery Year, children are taught various communication methods, with staff trained in Makaton to support pupils in connecting with others. Families have also benefited from this training, leading to transformative conversations with their children. The school employs symbol exchange and objects of reference to assist non-verbal pupils, enabling them to express their needs and engage in learning. The curriculum is designed to be bespoke, allowing staff to tailor learning experiences to individual pupils, integrating essential skills such as communication and social development into academic subjects.
Springhead School offers a wide range of therapies and intervention programs on-site, including access to a sensory hydrotherapy pool and spaces for deep pressure therapy. The presence of school dogs provides additional support, helping pupils understand cause and effect while fostering positive social interactions. This comprehensive approach has contributed to improved attendance rates among students.
The sixth-form curriculum is designed to prepare students for independent living, incorporating practical experiences such as managing a weekly allowance in the school café. This hands-on approach teaches students about financial responsibility and the consequences of their choices. Additionally, students engage in community internships and participate in significant events, enhancing their social skills and real-world experiences.
Leaders prioritize staff well-being, ensuring that training is relevant and up-to-date to meet the needs of the school. They actively seek feedback from staff to improve the working environment and reduce workload pressures. The success of pupils is viewed as interconnected with the support provided to staff and families, fostering a collaborative community.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are robust, with leaders demonstrating a commitment to ensuring the safety of all pupils. They maintain effective systems for tracking and responding to safeguarding concerns, ensuring that staff are well-trained in current safeguarding practices. The school environment promotes safe choices, with leaders conducting thorough checks before employing staff who work with vulnerable pupils.
Overall, Springhead School exemplifies excellence in education for pupils with special educational needs, providing a nurturing and supportive environment that fosters growth, independence, and success. The school’s commitment to communication, tailored learning, and holistic support ensures that every pupil can achieve their full potential.
