Rosewood Free School, located in Southampton, Hampshire, has been recognized as an outstanding institution following its recent inspection on October 11 and 12, 2023. The headteacher, Zoé Evans, also serves as the chief executive officer of the Specialist Schools Trust Ltd, which oversees the school. The school caters to pupils aged two to nineteen, primarily those with profound and multiple learning difficulties, and all students have an Education, Health and Care plan.
The school environment is described as nurturing, with pupils thriving under the exceptional care provided by a dedicated team of teachers, support staff, and health professionals. Parents express a strong sense of belonging to the Rosewood community, often referring to the school as a second home. The collaborative approach among staff ensures that pupils receive a high-quality education alongside necessary health and care services. Attendance is actively promoted, contributing to the well-being and progress of the students in both learning and personal development.
Staff members demonstrate a deep understanding of each pupil's needs, employing consistent routines that help students navigate their environment. They carefully observe and interpret pupils' physical movements and vocalizations, responding promptly to their needs. The curriculum is highly personalized, allowing for tailored learning experiences that prepare pupils for adulthood from the very beginning of their time at the school. Independence and choice-making are integral to the school's philosophy, fostering a sense of agency among students.
The school excels in its ambitious and well-organized curriculum, which is designed to meet the individual needs of pupils across key developmental areas. Staff set achievable targets in communication, cognition, physical development, environmental control, and personal, social, emotional, and well-being aspects. A wealth of information is gathered about each pupil, enabling staff to track progress effectively and respond to needs in a timely manner.
The multi-disciplinary team at Rosewood Free School is noted for its exceptional collaboration, ensuring that pupils' holistic needs are met. Communication among professionals is of high quality, allowing for prompt care while maintaining a focus on educational outcomes. The school provides various therapies, including hydrotherapy and physiotherapy, and maintains strong partnerships with parents and carers, who report positively on the school's effectiveness.
Pupils benefit from extensive opportunities for personal development, including trips and community engagement activities. These experiences are designed to support individual targets and enhance social skills. The school prepares students for adulthood by considering their and their families' wishes in personalized pathways, particularly during transition points.
Leaders at Rosewood Free School have cultivated a culture of collaboration and support among staff, who report high levels of job satisfaction and well-being. Initiatives are in place to manage staff workload, and opportunities for professional development are abundant. The board of trustees and local governors are well-informed about the school's operations, providing a balance of support and challenge to the leadership team.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. This inspection marks the second ungraded inspection since the school was last judged outstanding in 2014, reaffirming its commitment to excellence in education and care for its students. Overall, Rosewood Free School continues to demonstrate outstanding practices in meeting the needs of its pupils and fostering a supportive community.
