Oak View School, located in Loughton, Essex, is a small special school that caters to pupils aged 3 to 19, all of whom have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan. The school has recently undergone its first inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic, receiving a Good rating across all areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, early years provision, and sixth-form provision. The inspection took place on November 23 and 24, 2022, and the school has not been previously inspected under section 5 of the Education Act 2005.
Pupils at Oak View School express pride in their educational environment, where they engage in a curriculum designed to equip them with essential life skills. The school fosters a culture of respect and dignity, with staff attuned to the individual needs and capabilities of each pupil. This supportive atmosphere encourages pupils to become more independent in their decision-making and enhances their social skills. The school emphasizes the importance of emotional management, helping pupils make positive choices regarding their feelings and behavior.
Safety is a priority at Oak View School, with pupils reporting that they feel secure and supported by staff, particularly in times of anxiety or worry. The school also provides opportunities for pupils to gain real-world experiences, such as participating in community activities like recycling and helping at local allotments.
Leaders at Oak View School are committed to ensuring that pupils reach their full potential. They have implemented significant changes to the curriculum, focusing on placing learners at the center of their education. The curriculum is tailored to meet the diverse needs of pupils, many of whom have severe or profound learning difficulties. Leaders work closely with external professionals to ensure that pupils receive the necessary support, and they emphasize the importance of communication in preparing pupils for adulthood.
The school has introduced a new phonics program that is being taught effectively, helping pupils improve their reading skills. Additionally, staff utilize storytelling and enthusiastic reading to engage pupils and foster a love for books. However, there is recognition that some aspects of the communication learning pathway could be further refined to better support pupils who are becoming more proficient readers.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Leaders are aware that some pupils require more precise support as they advance in their reading abilities and that the physical education curriculum could be more structured to meet the needs of pupils ready to develop their skills further. Additionally, there are instances where staff may be slow to notice when pupils lose focus, which can hinder engagement in learning.
Overall, Oak View School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that the curriculum evolves to meet the changing needs of students. The school’s commitment to personal development, safety, and academic achievement creates a positive atmosphere where pupils can thrive and prepare for their future. The inspection highlights the school's strengths while also identifying areas for ongoing development, ensuring that it remains responsive to the needs of its pupils.
