The Meadows School, located in Spennymoor, underwent an inspection on December 5 and 6, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The school caters to pupils aged 11 to 16, all of whom have Education, Health, and Care plans, and it focuses on supporting those with social, emotional, and mental health needs. The inspection highlighted that while the school provides a high level of support and fosters positive relationships between staff and pupils, there are significant areas that require improvement.
Pupils at The Meadows School work in small groups, which allows for personalized attention. The school follows the national curriculum and offers a range of qualifications, with pupils expressing pride in their achievements. However, the identification of additional learning needs among pupils is not as precise as it should be, which can hinder their progress. Although most pupils adapt well after transitioning from previous schools, a small number struggle with attendance and behavior, impacting their learning experience.
The school encourages reading and has a phonics scheme in place, but the teaching of phonics is currently underdeveloped, particularly for those at the early stages of reading. The recent leadership changes, including the establishment of an interim executive board, have brought stability to the school, which is viewed positively by staff and parents. The leadership team is committed to improving the school, and staff feel valued and eager to contribute to this journey.
The curriculum is well-structured, with clear plans outlining what pupils need to learn. In most subjects, lesson activities align well with intended learning outcomes, allowing pupils to build on their knowledge effectively. However, in some subjects, the delivery of lessons is less effective, leading to disengagement among certain pupils. The school has implemented personalized support plans for each pupil, but there is a gap in information regarding sensory and speech and language needs, which the school is aware of and plans to address.
Attendance remains a challenge, with some pupils missing significant amounts of school. The school is actively working on improving attendance and behavior management through new systems that are beginning to show positive results. The personal, social, and health education program is well-designed, teaching pupils about health, relationships, and British values, while the careers program effectively prepares pupils for post-16 education or training.
The safeguarding arrangements at The Meadows School are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and supported. The inspection report emphasizes the need for the school to enhance its implementation of planned learning, ensuring that all staff have the necessary strategies and resources to engage pupils effectively. Additionally, the school must develop its systems for identifying sensory and communication needs to support all pupils adequately.
Overall, while The Meadows School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and caring environment for its pupils, it faces challenges in areas such as attendance, lesson delivery, and the identification of additional needs. The leadership team is aware of these issues and is taking steps to address them, aiming to improve the quality of education and overall effectiveness of the school.
