Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Hope School on April 2, 2019, and the findings indicate that the school continues to provide an outstanding quality of education. The leadership team has effectively maintained the high standards established during the previous inspection in November 2014. Mr. Rohit Naik, the headteacher, is recognized as an inspirational leader who is deeply committed to understanding and addressing pupils' behavior. Following the last inspection, he undertook a thorough analysis of how well the school equips pupils with lifelong skills, particularly in managing their behavior both in and out of school. This analysis revealed that while pupils could control their behavior in school, they struggled to do so outside of it, primarily due to difficulties in forming emotional attachments.
In response, Mr. Naik implemented a significant change in the management of pupil behavior, adopting an attachment-sensitive approach informed by academic research. This new strategy shifted the focus from external sanctions and rewards to understanding the internal motivations behind behavior. The approach empowers pupils to manage their behavior independently, supported by extensive training for staff and families. The impact of this initiative has been profound, fostering a school environment where pupils learn to understand and manage their behavior effectively. Observations during the inspection highlighted instances of pupils supporting one another in managing their behavior, demonstrating a shared understanding of the new approach.
The leadership team, characterized by knowledgeable and enthusiastic members, has been instrumental in this transformation. They maintain a reflective culture that allows for continuous monitoring and adjustment of strategies to ensure positive outcomes for pupils. The staff has embraced the new approach, benefiting from effective training that has enhanced their confidence and teaching quality. Governors, initially skeptical about the need for change, have come to fully support the new direction after witnessing its positive impact.
Parents and carers expressed strong support for the school, noting significant improvements in their children's behavior and overall well-being. Pupils themselves reported enjoying school and feeling understood and supported in their learning journey. The local authority has recognized the success of the attachment-sensitive approach and is eager to collaborate with the school to share best practices with others in the area.
The inspection also confirmed that safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded throughout the school. Staff are well-trained and vigilant, ensuring that pupils feel safe and cared for. The curriculum effectively teaches pupils about personal safety, including online safety, and pupils demonstrate a clear understanding of how to keep themselves safe.
Attendance rates have improved significantly since the introduction of the attachment-sensitive approach, with systems in place to monitor and address any issues related to absence. The school has successfully reduced the number of persistently absent pupils through targeted support and engagement with families.
Overall, the inspection findings highlight that Hope School is excelling in its mission to support pupils with attachment and trauma histories, fostering an environment where they can thrive academically and emotionally. The school is well-positioned to continue its innovative practices and share its successes with other institutions.
