St Mary’s School in Horam, East Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 27 and 28, 2023. The headteacher, Paul Murphy, leads the school, which is part of The Sabden Multi-Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Joanne Foulkes and a board of trustees chaired by Gillian Sole. The school caters to pupils with complex social, emotional, and behavioral needs, many of whom arrive with limited personal skills necessary for positive engagement in school and community life. The staff and leadership are acutely aware of these challenges and have designed a curriculum that focuses on developing these essential skills over time. The rural environment of the school enhances its outdoor curriculum, with activities such as forest school and animal care being particularly popular among students.
Older pupils, who have spent more time at the school, have shown significant growth in empathy and understanding, which has helped them re-engage with their education. Most feel prepared for their future endeavors. However, some pupils struggle with emotional regulation, occasionally resorting to aggressive language when upset. The staff are well-trained to manage these situations and ensure a safe learning environment. To support younger pupils, the school has implemented staggered break times and created a separate provision for older pupils with autism, providing a quieter learning space.
The school excels in integrating new pupils, many of whom have faced challenges in previous educational settings. Initial efforts focus on building resilience and trust, which helps students adapt to school life. The daily schedule is thoughtfully structured to accommodate the unique needs of the pupils, including short breaks between lessons to help them reset. The school also offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities, allowing pupils to explore their interests and potential career paths, such as animal husbandry and motor mechanics.
Despite these strengths, the school has identified areas for improvement, particularly in early reading instruction. Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in pupils at the early stages of reading. While a phonics curriculum is in place for younger students, there is a need for further training for staff to effectively support struggling readers. Additionally, the curriculum lacks cohesion between primary and secondary phases in some subjects, which can hinder pupils' preparedness for secondary education. Leaders are actively working to address these issues by reviewing and enhancing the curriculum.
The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils receive the support outlined in their education, health, and care plans, which include various interventions and therapies aimed at improving their mental and physical well-being. Leaders are also focused on helping pupils understand the importance of qualifications for their future success, providing appropriate career guidance and information about available college courses.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Mary’s School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The leadership team demonstrates a strong understanding of the school’s needs and is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares pupils for their next steps. The governance structure is robust, with clear accountability and oversight in place. Overall, St Mary’s School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, while actively working to address areas for growth.
