The St Christopher School, located in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, has recently undergone an inspection on 23 and 24 April 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is part of the SEN Trust Southend and caters to pupils aged 3 to 19, all of whom have an education, health, and care plan. The headteacher, Dan Woodman, leads a dedicated team that has made significant strides in refining the curriculum to meet the needs of an increasing number of pupils with complex learning requirements.
Pupils at the school demonstrate a strong sense of community and positive relationships with both staff and peers. They exhibit exceptional attitudes towards learning, working diligently to meet the high expectations set by the school. The emphasis on developing ‘learning powers’ enables pupils to engage actively in their education, fostering independence through participation in various clubs and activities that spark their interests and talents.
The school provides a rich array of opportunities that prepare pupils well for their future. Community engagement activities, such as shopping for cooking ingredients or art supplies, help pupils develop essential life skills. The sixth form students particularly value their residential trips, which enhance their learning experiences. The curriculum has been carefully structured into three routes to ensure that all pupils acquire the necessary knowledge, with a focus on individualized learning where appropriate.
While the school has made commendable progress in curriculum development, there are areas that require ongoing attention. Staff training has been effective, yet some educators are still adapting to the new curriculum approaches. This has occasionally led to lessons prioritizing activity completion over securing essential knowledge. The school recognizes the need to ensure that all staff fully understand and implement the curriculum as intended by the leadership team.
Communication support is a key focus, with staff adept at identifying and addressing the needs of pupils from their first day in the Reception Year. The curriculum in early years is designed to help children develop vital life skills, including concentration and effective communication. As pupils progress, they begin to learn reading through phonics, with staff actively promoting a love for reading through diverse literature.
The sixth form offers an exceptional curriculum, complemented by high-quality careers advice that helps students discover new talents and interests. Communication skills are further developed through practical activities, such as collaborative cooking projects. The school also utilizes a caravan on Mersea Island to provide unique learning experiences that contribute to life skills development.
Pupils learn the importance of health and safety through the personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum, which emphasizes respect for diversity and healthy relationships. The governance structure, including trustees and local governors, is effective in holding school leaders accountable for the quality of education. They understand the school’s priorities and support the leadership in implementing necessary improvements.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, while the school has achieved a good rating, it is committed to continuous improvement, particularly in embedding new curriculum approaches and ensuring that all staff are equipped to deliver the intended educational outcomes. The school engages well with parents, who appreciate the positive impact it has on their children’s lives.
