Clarendon School, located in Twickenham, is a special academy catering for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The recent inspection conducted on April 24 and 25, 2024, confirmed that the school maintains its outstanding status. However, the evidence suggests that if a graded inspection were to occur now, the results might not reflect the same high standards. The school is led by executive headteacher Niall Dumigan and is part of The Auriga Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Ivan Pryce and a board of trustees chaired by Harry James.
Pupils at Clarendon School, all of whom have special educational needs, are well cared for and demonstrate a strong enjoyment of their school experience. They feel safe and happy, which contributes to their increasing attendance rates. The staff foster positive relationships with the pupils, understanding their individual needs and building effective partnerships with parents and carers. The school has high expectations for its pupils, and while the curriculum is undergoing improvements to meet these expectations, some areas still require further development.
The support and guidance provided to pupils are exceptional, with staff adeptly responding to the emotional needs of the students. Behaviour management is effective, and the school teaches pupils about emotional regulation and healthy relationships, preparing them for adulthood. Transition support is a priority, with leaders ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their next steps after leaving the school. The school encourages pupils to express their opinions, and they have access to a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and trips.
Leaders have recognized areas for improvement, particularly in the curriculum, which is being redesigned to enhance continuity between primary and secondary education. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of the pupils, identifying essential knowledge for their learning. Assessment strategies are effectively employed to monitor pupil progress, ensuring that most pathways align with their educational needs. Older pupils are able to achieve appropriate academic and vocational qualifications.
Despite these strengths, there are challenges in the implementation of the curriculum in certain subjects, which can hinder pupils' depth of understanding. Communication and reading are prioritized, with staff carefully assessing pupils' starting points and teaching them to use selected communication systems. A phonics program has been introduced, fostering a love for reading among pupils.
Attendance strategies have shown effectiveness, with leaders prioritizing this aspect of school life. Pupils arrive on time and demonstrate respect towards adults, contributing to a calm and orderly learning environment. Staff express positive sentiments about their work at the school, appreciating the support and training provided. However, governance is currently undergoing a transition, which has led to some areas not being monitored closely enough, potentially slowing necessary improvements.
The safeguarding arrangements at Clarendon School are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Moving forward, the school must focus on embedding the new curriculum consistently across all subjects and ensuring that governance is strengthened to maintain effective oversight. This will help the school continue to provide a high-quality education for its pupils, preparing them for future success.
