Oracle

Oracle School is an independent co-educational day special school located in Silsoe, Bedfordshire, catering for pupils aged 8 to 18 years. Established in 2006, the school is managed by Oracle Care and Education Ltd and is overseen by a governing board. The school occupies a single building within a small commercial estate and is designed to be flexible, accommodating the varying ages, abilities, and interests of its pupils. Since the appointment of a new headteacher and chair of governors in September 2017, the school has focused on providing a holistic service of care and education within a therapeutic environment.

The school serves a diverse population of pupils referred for admission by local authorities across the country. All pupils have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, indicating their special educational needs, which include specific learning difficulties and mental health issues. The school emphasizes individualized support, offering various therapies such as occupational, art, and music therapies, as well as counseling. The curriculum is tailored to meet the unique needs of each pupil, ensuring that all receive the necessary support to thrive academically and personally.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) confirmed that Oracle School meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection assessed various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality. The findings indicated that the school effectively promotes good behavior, safeguards pupils, and maintains a safe environment. The school has appropriate facilities for medical and therapy needs, and it adheres to health and safety regulations.

In terms of educational quality, the school provides a documented curriculum that covers a broad range of subjects and is supported by effective teaching practices. While some pupils take GCSEs, the small number of candidates means that results are not statistically significant. However, the teaching enables pupils to make good progress, and the school has established a suitable framework for assessing pupil performance. The school’s focus on individual needs ensures that pupils receive the support necessary to achieve their academic goals.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages pupils to engage with their community and understand the importance of diversity and respect for others. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to promote good behavior and prevent bullying. The school maintains accurate attendance records and has a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The suitability of staff is rigorously checked, ensuring that all individuals in contact with pupils are appropriately vetted. The school maintains a register of staff and supply staff, meeting the required standards. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils, including adequate toilet and changing facilities, as well as outdoor spaces for physical education and play.

Information is effectively communicated to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, covering various aspects of the school’s operations, including admission procedures, behavior policies, and academic performance. The school has a clear complaints procedure in place, which is handled effectively through a structured process.

Leadership and management at Oracle School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that the school meets its responsibilities and promotes the well-being of pupils. The proprietor actively supports the leadership team in maintaining high standards and fostering a positive learning environment.

The educational quality inspection highlighted that the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is good. Pupils make significant progress relative to their individual starting points, developing positive attitudes toward learning. While some teaching may not always be sufficiently engaging, the overall academic achievement is commendable. Pupils also demonstrate good non-academic achievements, supported by the school’s encouragement of their interests.

The personal development of pupils is excellent, with the school providing strong support for mental health and well-being. Pupils exhibit self-understanding and empathy for others, demonstrating respect for diversity. The school fosters an environment where pupils feel safe to express themselves and take responsibility for their learning. They are involved in decision-making regarding their personalized learning programs, which enhances their sense of ownership and motivation.

Pupils’ behavior is generally very good, with a strong understanding of right and wrong. They are courteous and kind, and the school’s leadership sets clear expectations for behavior while providing support when needed. The school promotes a culture of respect and understanding, encouraging pupils to collaborate and solve problems together.

Pupils also engage in various extracurricular activities, contributing to their overall development. They participate in community service initiatives, such as supporting food banks, which fosters a sense of social responsibility. The school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident, as pupils learn to appreciate different perspectives and respect individuals from various backgrounds.

In conclusion, Oracle School provides a nurturing and supportive environment for pupils with special educational needs. The school meets regulatory standards and promotes a holistic approach to education, focusing on both academic and personal development. With a strong emphasis on individualized support, the school enables pupils to thrive and prepares them for future success, fostering resilience, self-confidence, and a sense of community. The positive feedback from pupils and parents reflects the school’s effectiveness in meeting the diverse needs of its students and promoting their overall well-being.