Shenstone School is a special school located in Crayford, Kent, catering for pupils with severe learning difficulties. The school operates across two sites, with one site dedicated to early years and younger pupils, while the other serves older students. The recent inspection conducted in October 2019 confirmed that Shenstone School continues to be a good school. The atmosphere at Shenstone is characterized by happiness and friendliness, with staff knowing each pupil personally. This close-knit environment fosters a sense of belonging, as evidenced by the enthusiastic greetings exchanged between pupils and staff each morning.
The staff at Shenstone are dedicated to understanding the individual needs of their pupils, planning a diverse range of activities that cater to these needs. They celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, which contributes to a positive learning experience. The school emphasizes making learning enjoyable, with pupils engaging in various activities, including lessons in a sensory garden and workshops focused on life skills. Additionally, the school promotes parental involvement, ensuring that parents are kept informed and engaged in their children's education. Resources and training are provided to help parents support their children's communication needs at home.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with a strong emphasis on creating a safe environment free from bullying. Staff are trained to handle any issues that arise, ensuring that pupils feel secure and cared for. The leadership team has made significant improvements over the past two years, fostering a culture of high expectations for both pupils and staff. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to follow tailored pathways based on their individual needs, ensuring access to all areas of learning.
The school has implemented a communication curriculum that has shown positive results, with pupils becoming increasingly confident in their communication skills. However, there is room for improvement in providing opportunities for pupils to practice these skills in various settings, such as during playtime. The early years program is particularly strong, with staff collaborating effectively to meet the needs of young children. Parents have reported noticeable improvements in their children's skills, such as using cutlery during mealtimes.
The safeguarding measures in place at Shenstone School are effective, with staff well-trained in their responsibilities to protect pupils from harm. Individual management plans are created for each pupil, ensuring that their specific needs are addressed. The school has a robust system for logging and monitoring any concerns related to pupil welfare.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. The phonics program is still in its early stages and requires further embedding. Some staff may need additional training to ensure phonics is taught effectively. Additionally, the reading materials used for phonics instruction need to be reviewed to ensure they align with the sounds pupils have learned. The school is committed to addressing these areas and enhancing the overall educational experience for its pupils. Overall, Shenstone School provides a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes the development and well-being of its pupils.
