The Bridge Satellite Provision, part of The Bridge Multi Academy Trust, is a special school located in London, catering for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, predominantly those with autism spectrum disorder. The school opened in September 2017 and has recently undergone its first inspection, which took place on 22 and 23 February 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with similar ratings for the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
The school is committed to meeting the needs of every pupil, with leaders demonstrating ambition and determination. Staff play a crucial role in helping pupils improve their social skills and develop positive attitudes towards learning. They create an environment where pupils can experience success in their lessons, which contributes to their overall happiness and sense of safety at school. The staff's approach to managing behaviour is effective, employing restorative practices that encourage pupils to reflect on their actions and understand their impact on others. This approach fosters a trusting relationship between pupils and adults, enhancing the overall school experience.
The curriculum at The Bridge Satellite Provision is ambitious and tailored to the individual needs of pupils, many of whom arrive with previous negative experiences and low attendance at other schools. Leaders are focused on helping pupils overcome barriers to learning and aspire to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary for future success. A comprehensive social skills and communication curriculum is in place, allowing pupils to learn about their emotions and how to manage them effectively. This foundation supports their ability to learn in a calm environment.
Assessment practices are utilized effectively to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge and to adapt teaching to meet individual needs. The school prioritizes improving reading skills through a well-structured phonics program, enabling pupils to become fluent readers and access the wider curriculum. The curriculum encompasses a broad range of subjects, with careful consideration given to the content that will be most beneficial for pupils' aspirations and future lives. Teaching is designed to reinforce prior learning, helping pupils retain knowledge over the long term.
Despite the strengths of the school, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers lack deep subject knowledge, particularly in foundation subjects, which can hinder pupils' learning experiences. Leaders are encouraged to support staff in enhancing their subject expertise to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality education across all subjects. Additionally, there are instances where activities chosen by teachers do not align well with the intended subject-specific knowledge, leading to missed opportunities for deeper understanding.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with staff being vigilant and knowledgeable about the signs of risk. Leaders work closely with external agencies to ensure the safety and welfare of pupils. The school also emphasizes the importance of mental health and well-being, providing significant support to both pupils and their families.
Overall, The Bridge Satellite Provision is a supportive and nurturing environment that prioritizes the needs of its pupils. With a strong focus on personal development and a commitment to improving educational outcomes, the school is well-positioned to continue making a positive impact on the lives of its students.
