The Avenue Special School, located in Tilehurst, Reading, Berkshire, underwent an inspection on May 16 and 17, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education, personal development, leadership, and management, as well as sixth-form provision, were all rated good. This inspection marked a change from the previous outstanding grade received in 2019.
Pupils at The Avenue Special School demonstrate happiness and enthusiasm for attending school. They are greeted warmly by staff who are familiar with their individual needs, fostering a positive start to the day. The school has implemented a well-organized curriculum that caters to the diverse needs of its pupils, helping them build confidence and resilience in their learning. As a result, students thrive and are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
The school maintains high expectations for behaviour, and pupils consistently strive to meet these standards. Staff employ consistent routines and thoughtful strategies to help pupils manage their behaviour effectively, contributing to a calm and supportive atmosphere throughout the school. The nurturing relationships between staff and pupils create a safe environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves. Parents have expressed their satisfaction with the support and educational achievements their children have made.
Leaders at The Avenue Special School have a clear vision for providing a broad and high-quality education. The curriculum is organized into pathways that address the various special educational needs and disabilities of the pupils. Newly appointed curriculum leaders have worked diligently to develop sequential learning activities across core subjects, ensuring that knowledgeable teachers deliver engaging lessons that help pupils consolidate their learning over time. However, there is a need for more systematic integration of individually tailored targets across all areas of learning to enhance pupils' progress toward personalized outcomes.
The teaching of reading has improved since the last inspection, with a well-established phonics program in place. Teachers adapt resources to support pupils' learning effectively, and older pupils demonstrate progress in their reading skills. The school promotes a love for reading through sensory stories and independent reading opportunities, allowing pupils to discover their favorite books and authors.
Despite the strengths in communication support, some staff lack the necessary expertise to facilitate effective communication for all pupils. This can limit pupils' ability to engage fully and independently in the curriculum. Leaders are encouraged to continue providing training and resources to enhance staff knowledge in this area.
Pupils' personal development is prioritized, with a wide range of activities enriching the curriculum and helping students understand the broader world. Through school councils, pupils have a voice in school life, contributing to improvements such as menu choices that reflect the diverse cultural backgrounds of the community.
The sixth form offers a curriculum that prepares students for adulthood, focusing on independence and life skills. Pupils report positive experiences, such as learning to cook and trying new foods. Most staff enjoy working at the school, although some have expressed a desire for additional support in managing their workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at The Avenue Special School are effective, with robust systems in place to ensure the safety and well-being of pupils. Leaders work closely with professional agencies and families to manage complex situations sensitively.
To improve further, leaders should continue refining the personalization of the curriculum to meet individual pupil needs and ensure that staff have the necessary knowledge and resources to support communication effectively.
