Cleaswell Hill School, located in Choppington, Northumberland, has been recognized as an outstanding institution following its inspection on June 29 and 30, 2022. The school is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where pupils thrive, supported by strong, caring relationships between staff and students. High expectations are set for all pupils, and this is reflected in the overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents and carers, many of whom express gratitude for the support and care their children receive.
Pupils at Cleaswell Hill School exhibit exceptional behavior, moving calmly and respectfully throughout the school. Positive interactions among students are evident in all areas, fostering a supportive community. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, who feel secure and trust the adults in the school. They are aware of the behavioral expectations and are confident that any issues, including bullying, would be addressed promptly by staff.
The school caters to pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, and the staff are highly skilled in adapting the curriculum to meet individual needs. Leaders are well-informed about the diverse requirements of their pupils and have employed various therapists and support workers to enhance the educational experience. The curriculum is ambitious and carefully planned, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge and skills over time. It is designed to be accessible to all pupils, taking into account the challenges they may face in a mainstream setting.
Cleaswell Hill School also emphasizes the importance of preparing pupils for their future. The sixth form students have described the support they receive as excellent, with a well-coordinated approach to planning their next steps involving multiple professionals. The pastoral and therapy teams play a crucial role in supporting pupils' well-being through various strategies, including play therapy and one-on-one sessions.
Recognizing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education, the school has implemented effective interventions to help pupils catch up on any lost learning. Leaders and staff are committed to promoting personal development, offering a range of enrichment activities such as sports, gardening, and educational trips, which pupils enjoy immensely.
Staff at Cleaswell Hill School report high levels of support for their workload and well-being, and the governing body provides effective oversight and challenge to school leaders. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with extensive training ensuring that staff can identify and respond to any safety concerns. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide additional support for pupils and their families, and governors regularly review safeguarding procedures.
This inspection marks the second section eight inspection since the school was deemed outstanding in March 2017. The inspectors engaged with various stakeholders, including senior leaders, governors, and pupils, to assess the school's performance comprehensively. They conducted deep dives into specific subjects, ensuring a thorough evaluation of the curriculum and its implementation.
Overall, Cleaswell Hill School continues to demonstrate excellence in its educational provision, fostering a safe and supportive environment where pupils can flourish academically and personally. The commitment of the staff, the effectiveness of the leadership, and the positive relationships within the school community contribute to its outstanding status.
