Harbour School in Dorset, which opened in 2019, has recently undergone its first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic. The school, part of Delta Education Trust, caters to students aged 10 to 19 with special educational needs, particularly those with social, emotional, and mental health needs, as well as autism. The inspection, conducted on 10 and 11 October 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision.
The headteacher, Daniel Butt, leads a dedicated team that has successfully created a curriculum tailored to meet the diverse academic, social, and emotional needs of its pupils. The school emphasizes practical learning experiences alongside traditional national curriculum subjects, ensuring that each student can engage in a way that suits their individual learning style. Post-16 students benefit from vocational training in areas such as car mechanics, salon skills, catering, and horticulture, which has been well received.
Strong relationships between staff and pupils are a hallmark of the school, fostering a safe and enjoyable learning environment. Staff are trained to support pupils during challenging emotional moments, contributing to a calm atmosphere conducive to learning. Most pupils demonstrate a strong work ethic, and learning mentors encourage them to complete tasks independently, preparing them for future educational or vocational opportunities.
The curriculum is designed with multiple pathways to accommodate varying needs and abilities, with clear learning objectives for each pathway. Teachers often utilize their knowledge of individual pupils to plan effective lessons. However, there are instances where the planned sequence of learning is not consistently followed, which can hinder the progression of pupils' understanding. Additionally, some teachers may lack sufficient subject knowledge, impacting their ability to provide adequate support.
Assessment practices are regularly employed to gauge pupil learning, but not all teachers utilize effective methods, leading to unreliable data regarding pupil progress. In contrast, assessments for post-16 coursework are conducted accurately, allowing students to demonstrate their skills through practical tasks.
The school has implemented a daily reading session to enhance pupils' reading enjoyment and skills, with positive results noted in the confidence and fluency of those requiring additional support. Recognizing the varying reading levels of new pupils, the school plans to introduce a phonics scheme to further assist early readers. Staff training in special educational needs and disabilities has contributed to a positive learning environment, with effective use of local training opportunities in core subjects.
Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders regularly checking in on their needs. While some pupil behaviour can be challenging, the school has effectively reduced incidents by creating designated areas for different pupil groups. Although instances of bullying are addressed promptly, a minority of parents have expressed concerns about communication with the school.
The personal development curriculum is integrated across various subjects, preparing pupils for adulthood through vocational courses and career education. Strong links with local employers and colleges provide valuable experiences for pupils, ensuring they are well-prepared for life after school. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
To improve, the school should focus on ensuring that teachers consistently follow the planned curriculum and enhance their assessment skills to accurately identify gaps in pupil understanding. Additionally, increasing staff subject knowledge will further support the effective implementation of the curriculum. Overall, Harbour School demonstrates a commitment to providing quality education and support for its pupils, fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.
