Lighthouse School Leeds is a special school located in Cookridge, Leeds, catering for pupils aged 11 to 19 with special educational needs, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder. The school has a strong focus on providing an ambitious, destination-led curriculum designed to inspire students and equip them with essential skills and experiences for their future. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, who all have an education, health, and care plan. The school is well-resourced, with specialist staff trained to support the complex needs of its students, and communication skills development is a key component of the curriculum.
The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by mutual respect, fostering a positive learning environment where pupils are encouraged to engage actively in lessons. Staff employ motivational language to inspire students, creating a supportive atmosphere that promotes hard work and achievement. Personal development is a notable strength of the school, with effective guidance provided to help pupils transition to work or further education. Pupils report feeling safe and secure, with bullying not being a significant issue, and any concerns are addressed promptly by staff.
The curriculum is meticulously planned, with leaders ensuring that pupils know what they are expected to learn across various subjects. While most subjects are well-developed, there are areas where the curriculum could be further enhanced to match the quality of the strongest subjects. Reading is emphasized, and pupils receive targeted support to improve their reading and communication skills, including access to speech and language therapists. The school promotes a calm and purposeful atmosphere, with pupils demonstrating excellent behavior and respect for one another.
Lighthouse School Leeds places a strong emphasis on personal development, encouraging pupils to engage with their local community and participate in discussions with local politicians. The school provides robust career support, with all pupils receiving individual career meetings and opportunities for work experience. The after-school program, known as the Shine Club, is well-attended and offers a variety of activities that promote health and well-being.
Staff at the school are well-trained and supported, with manageable workloads and effective assessment practices in place. Early career teachers receive mentorship and coaching, ensuring they are well-prepared for their roles. The board of trustees is committed to maintaining high educational standards as the school expands, regularly visiting to monitor progress and quality.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with thorough checks on staff and ongoing training to ensure all staff understand their responsibilities. The school promotes a proactive approach to safeguarding, with staff trained to recognize and address vulnerabilities among pupils, particularly in online settings.
Overall, Lighthouse School Leeds continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong focus on personal development and communication skills. While the curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, there is room for improvement in certain subject areas to ensure consistency across the board. The school is well-regarded by pupils and staff alike, and its commitment to supporting students with special educational needs is evident in its practices and outcomes.
