Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Wilson Stuart School on 20 March 2019, following its previous outstanding judgment in February 2015. The inspection team, led by Dan Owen, found that the school continues to provide an outstanding quality of education. The leadership team has effectively maintained high standards, with the executive headteacher promoting a culture where all staff are seen as leaders. This collaborative approach has resulted in excellent pupil progress and a commitment to continuous improvement through self-evaluation and external scrutiny.
Leaders actively seek opportunities for pupils, securing support from various funding bodies and educational providers. They have developed their own training programs for teachers and teaching assistants, particularly in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The school environment is described as vibrant, with positive interactions between staff and pupils. Staff express pride in their work and feel valued in the decision-making processes, contributing to a strong sense of community.
Governance at the school is robust, with governors providing both support and challenge. They have ensured that the school expands its influence responsibly and that the establishment of a multi-academy trust benefits the school. Safeguarding practices are effective, with leaders demonstrating a thorough understanding of the vulnerabilities of pupils with special educational needs. Clear procedures are in place for reporting and addressing safeguarding concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
The curriculum is highly personalized, catering for the diverse needs of pupils. Secondary-aged students have access to various pathways, including vocational and independence skills training, which has led to significant success in their academic pursuits. The curriculum is broad and engaging, with opportunities for participation in a wide range of activities. Recent additions, such as drama sessions, have further enriched the learning experience.
Leaders prioritize pupils' welfare and safeguarding within the curriculum, utilizing monitoring software to identify those needing mental health support. The school has also opened its own further education provision to ensure that all pupils have appropriate post-school destinations. This proactive approach has resulted in all pupils progressing to suitable destinations after leaving school.
The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, including musical performances and social events, which enhance the overall educational experience. Leaders have invested in training teaching assistants to become communication experts, addressing the lack of access to speech and language therapy in the area. While progress in communication skills is evident, there is a commitment to further develop these opportunities.
Assessment practices are straightforward, focusing on ambitious targets that are communicated clearly to staff and parents. Regular assessments inform daily curriculum adjustments, ensuring that all pupils are supported in their learning journey. The school employs a range of moderation techniques to maintain high expectations and standards.
In summary, Wilson Stuart School exemplifies outstanding educational practice, characterized by strong leadership, a commitment to pupil welfare, and a personalized curriculum that meets the diverse needs of its students. The school’s proactive approach to safeguarding, community engagement, and continuous improvement ensures that it remains a leader in providing quality education for all its pupils.
