Seven Hills School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, is a secondary special school catering for pupils aged 11 to 19 with a diverse range of needs, including physical disabilities, profound and multiple learning difficulties, and autism. The school has a total enrollment of 223 students, with 57 in the sixth form. The recent inspection, conducted on May 21 and 22, 2024, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, maintaining a high standard of education despite a previous outstanding grade.
Pupils at Seven Hills School benefit from a well-structured educational environment that promotes independence from the onset of Year 7. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for their future endeavors, with a focus on personal development and academic progress. The school emphasizes high expectations for all pupils, and targeted support from knowledgeable staff helps students achieve their potential. The positive attitudes of pupils towards learning are evident, as they demonstrate respect for both staff and peers. While instances of bullying may occur, pupils feel assured that staff will address any issues effectively.
The school provides personalized interventions through a dedicated pastoral team, which includes unique initiatives such as one-on-one gym sessions that allow students to discuss personal challenges while engaging in physical activity. Pupils with complex needs are supported in developing positive routines and relationships, learning to manage their behavior in a nurturing environment. The classroom settings are thoughtfully designed to foster good behavior, contributing to the emotional and social well-being of students.
Seven Hills School offers a variety of experiences aimed at broadening pupils' horizons, ensuring inclusivity in all activities. Outdoor pursuits, such as rock climbing, and extracurricular clubs like dance and football are integral to the school’s approach, allowing students to acquire transferable skills.
The school has made significant strides in revising its curriculum to meet the needs of its diverse student body. Strong relationships between pupils and staff enhance the learning experience, and the curriculum is brought to life through engaging, active methods. For instance, in key stage three English, pupils collaborate in groups to recount and create stories, linking their work to class texts. However, the implementation of these effective practices is not yet consistent across all areas of the school, and there is a need for a deeper understanding of the curriculum's effectiveness in meeting pupils' needs.
Pupils with the most complex needs benefit from a newly established learning pathway that focuses on intensive interaction and sensory experiences. While engagement in these activities is high, the school has yet to develop a comprehensive long-term plan for academic learning that addresses the varied starting points of these students, including those in the sixth form.
Reading is a central component of the curriculum, with each learning pathway incorporating a core text that reflects the school's community. Daily phonics instruction helps many pupils become more confident readers, while those with profound difficulties enjoy sensory stories that stimulate positive reactions. The sixth form students engage in functional reading activities, such as interpreting recipes and shopping lists, which aid in their daily living skills.
Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of safety and healthy relationships, with initiatives like Well-being Friday allowing them to make choices about their activities and interact with peers from different classes. The leadership team possesses a clear vision for the future and is aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff members feel supported and take pride in their work, benefiting from professional development opportunities aligned with the school's priorities.
The safeguarding arrangements at Seven Hills School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school must continue to refine its curriculum and assessment procedures to enhance academic progress for all students, particularly those with complex needs. Overall, Seven Hills School provides a supportive and enriching educational experience, preparing pupils well for their future.
