Saxon Hill Academy, located in Lichfield, Staffordshire, is a special school that caters to pupils with physical disabilities, medical needs, and complex learning requirements. The school has maintained its overall judgement of good following an ungraded inspection conducted on May 22 and 23, 2024. The evidence gathered during this inspection suggests that the school may achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were to take place soon. The headteacher, Melanie Newbury, leads the school, which is part of the Shaw Education Trust, overseen by CEO Jo Morgan and a board of trustees chaired by Andrew Meehan.
The school is characterized by a strong understanding of its pupils' needs, with staff delivering meaningful learning opportunities tailored to individual requirements. Teachers, support staff, and health assistants collaborate effectively to help students overcome barriers to learning, ensuring that all pupils can thrive. School leaders, supported by governors and the trust, are committed to continuous improvement while keeping the well-being of pupils at the forefront of their initiatives.
Pupils at Saxon Hill Academy enjoy a diverse range of activities and learning experiences. Staff encourage independent work, and when activities are led by adults, there is a strong emphasis on engaging pupils in the learning process. Positive relationships are evident throughout the school, contributing to a supportive environment where pupils feel comfortable and valued. Staff are proactive in identifying potential triggers for distress and provide reassurance when needed.
Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, appreciating the care and support provided by staff. Many view the school as a vital resource for their children, noting significant progress in their development. The curriculum is structured across four pathways, allowing for fluid movement between them to enhance learning experiences. The design of the curriculum facilitates opportunities for pupils to revisit and deepen their understanding of various subjects.
Communication is a key focus, with personalized strategies in place to ensure all pupils can express their thoughts and ideas effectively. Teachers create stimulating, purposeful, and multi-sensory learning activities that cater to the diverse needs of their students. The school has implemented a phonics curriculum that adapts to the needs of non-verbal pupils, enabling accurate assessment of their phonics knowledge.
Saxon Hill Academy is attentive to the evolving special educational needs of its pupils, working closely with external agencies to ensure timely identification and support. The school has established a robust attendance strategy, analyzing data to identify trends and provide tailored support for families.
Pupils speak fondly of their experiences, particularly highlighting the presence of a therapy dog, which they adore. The school fosters an inclusive atmosphere where differences are celebrated, and pupils take on responsibilities such as participating in the school council and acting as friendship buddies. The school prioritizes preparing pupils for adulthood, providing practical experiences such as shopping trips and interactions with the public.
The school also assists older pupils in identifying their future aspirations and mapping pathways to achieve them, including work experience opportunities in the local community. The multi-academy trust has established systems to monitor the school's performance, enabling effective support and challenge to ensure the best outcomes for pupils.
Staff appreciate the support from leaders and colleagues, valuing the training and resources available to them. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, contributing to a safe and nurturing environment for all pupils. Overall, Saxon Hill Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing high-quality education and support for its pupils, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
