Charlton Park Academy is a special school located in Charlton, London, catering for pupils with complex special educational needs and disabilities. The recent inspection conducted on June 7 and 8, 2023, confirmed that the school continues to be a good institution. The environment at Charlton Park Academy is described as safe and welcoming, with a strong emphasis on the welfare, care, and safety of all students. The school prioritizes equipping pupils with the necessary skills to lead fulfilling lives, which is evident in its robust personal, social, and health education program. This program provides students with numerous opportunities to develop essential life skills and understand the world beyond the school setting.
The curriculum for pupils with profound and multiple learning difficulties is particularly effective, with teachers and learning support assistants working closely to tailor individual programs that address the complex needs of each student. The resources available significantly enhance the educational experience for these pupils, ensuring they receive high-quality education. The staff at Charlton Park Academy are dedicated to making learning enjoyable and fostering strong relationships with students, which is reflected in the positive attitudes and behaviors observed among pupils. Parents and carers have expressed satisfaction, noting that their children enjoy attending school so much that they wish to be there during holidays.
Leaders at the school are committed to continuous improvement and have successfully implemented new developments in special education. They have provided training for staff and adapted practices to meet the evolving needs of pupils. The leadership team has been strengthened with the appointment of a new headteacher and senior staff, and the roles of middle leaders are being redefined for clarity in responsibilities. The curriculum is under review, with a new focus on reading and the introduction of phonics to enhance early reading skills. Initial results from the phonics program indicate that pupils are beginning to recognize sounds and read words more fluently.
While the overall learning experience is positive, there are areas for improvement. The integration of the new curriculum into everyday teaching practices is not yet fully established, and some staff may lack detailed knowledge of the new approaches. This gap can occasionally limit pupils' learning experiences. Leaders are aware of this and have plans in place to further develop staff professional skills.
Art is a significant component of the curriculum, with some pupils working towards GCSE qualifications. The teaching in this area equips students with fundamental skills and techniques that will benefit them beyond their time at school. The PSHE curriculum is particularly strong, offering pupils valuable insights into life skills and the world outside school, including sensitive topics like relationships and sex education.
The school excels in supporting pupils with profound and multiple learning difficulties, with staff providing engaging and tailored activities that meet individual needs. The curriculum is further enriched by outdoor gardening spaces and various extracurricular activities, including yoga and work experience opportunities. The commitment of governors to the school's success is evident, as they effectively support and hold leaders accountable.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with clear systems in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils. Staff are well-informed about safeguarding procedures, and there are strong links with local agencies to support pupils' welfare. Overall, Charlton Park Academy is a good school that provides a nurturing environment for its students, with ongoing efforts to enhance the educational experience and outcomes for all pupils.
