Stanton Vale School, located in Long Eaton, Nottinghamshire, is a specialist institution catering for pupils with various needs, including autism spectrum disorder, physical disabilities, and severe learning difficulties. The recent inspection conducted on March 29 and 30, 2023, reaffirmed the school's overall judgment of good, although it was noted that a graded inspection might yield a different outcome. The school is committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where pupils feel happy and valued. The staff exemplify the school's core values of working together, respect, aspiration, and potential, which encourages students to embody these principles in their own lives.
Pupils at Stanton Vale School are encouraged to develop resilience and confidence, with teachers promoting independence through community engagement and practical experiences. The school maintains high expectations for all students, although some areas of the curriculum require improvement to ensure that all pupils can meet these standards. The staff effectively address the additional needs of all pupils, providing necessary support for communication and learning.
Behavior among pupils is generally positive, with staff managing challenging behaviors effectively and addressing incidents of bullying promptly. The school fosters strong relationships between staff, pupils, and parents, contributing to a nurturing atmosphere. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the school's approach, highlighting the knowledge, patience, and kindness of the staff.
Leaders at Stanton Vale School are ambitious for their pupils, ensuring that targets align closely with individual education, health, and care plans. However, there are areas for development, particularly in identifying key knowledge across the curriculum. This lack of clarity can hinder pupils' ability to build knowledge over time. Additionally, some teachers do not consistently consider prior learning when planning lessons, which can lead to mismatched activities that do not cater to pupils' needs.
The school has prioritized early reading, with staff trained in phonics instruction. Pupils begin reading as soon as they enroll, and those who struggle receive one-on-one support. The curriculum includes engaging activities that promote a love of reading, incorporating various creative methods. Early years pupils benefit from individualized timetables and emotional support tools, fostering a positive start to their educational journey.
The sixth-form provision prepares students for adulthood through accredited courses and practical experiences, including work placements within the school. Students receive guidance on career opportunities and are supported in making informed choices about their futures. While low-level disruption occurs in some lessons, it is managed effectively, ensuring that learning is not significantly impacted.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges with pupil attendance, which affects learning and social development. Leaders recognize the importance of building confidence and resilience, utilizing programs like forest school to support these goals. Pupils learn about diversity and respect for others, gaining an understanding of different relationships and safety.
Leaders are aware of the school's strengths and areas needing improvement, collaborating with staff to implement necessary changes. The trustees provide effective support and challenge to the leadership team. Most staff express pride in their work and understand the rationale behind ongoing changes, despite the high workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at Stanton Vale School are effective, with regular training ensuring staff are equipped to identify and respond to risks. Pupils are taught how to keep themselves safe, including online safety. Overall, Stanton Vale School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils, while also recognizing the need for continued development in certain areas.
