The Wherry School, located in Norwich, Norfolk, has been inspected for the first time since its establishment in September 2017. The inspection took place on June 7 and 8, 2022, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good. The school caters to pupils aged 4 to 19, specifically those with special educational needs and disabilities related to autism spectrum disorder. The school has a caring culture and positive relationships that help pupils settle in quickly, especially those who have experienced significant disruption in their previous education.
Pupils' emotional health and well-being are well supported, with an on-site clinical team available to assist them. Staff are adept at recognizing signs of anxiety and managing any potential disruptions in a calm and orderly manner. The school environment fosters respect for individual differences, and pupils report that bullying is rare. As they progress through the year groups, pupils become increasingly confident, with sixth-form students expressing pride in their achievements and future plans.
The curriculum at Wherry School is broad and engaging, with a strong emphasis on personal, social, and health education. Leaders are committed to ensuring that pupils achieve academically while also focusing on their personal development. The school has implemented a three-tier support system that allows for individual and small group assistance, helping pupils build resilience and improve their communication skills.
While the quality of education is generally good, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the planning and implementation of the curriculum in some primary subjects like history and geography. Leaders are actively working to enhance the cohesiveness of the curriculum across all subjects and year groups. Reading fluency and communication skills are prioritized, with ongoing training for staff to effectively teach early reading through phonics.
The school has made significant strides in improving attendance, although some pupils still do not attend as regularly as they should. Leaders are focused on working closely with families and local authorities to minimize absences and ensure that all pupils reach their potential.
Governance at the school is strong, with a skilled and experienced team that holds leaders accountable for the school's performance. Staff feel well supported, and parents generally express positive views about the school's work. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks to pupils' safety. The PSHE curriculum is aligned with safeguarding principles, teaching pupils how to stay safe in various situations.
In summary, The Wherry School provides a supportive and nurturing environment for pupils with special educational needs. The school is committed to both academic achievement and personal development, with a focus on improving attendance and refining the curriculum. The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils receive the best possible education and support as they navigate their learning journeys.
