Ivy House School, located in Littleover, Derby, is recognized as an outstanding institution following its recent inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. The headteacher, Ian Armstrong, leads the school, which is part of the Shaw Education Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Jo Morgan and a board of trustees chaired by Andrew Meehan. The school serves a diverse range of pupils, including those with multi-sensory impairments, physical disabilities, severe learning difficulties, and profound and multiple learning difficulties.
Pupils at Ivy House School thrive in a nurturing environment where staff and leaders know them exceptionally well. This strong understanding allows for the setting of ambitious learning goals, leading to commendable achievements. The relationships between pupils and adults are characterized by mutual respect and support. Staff consistently encourage pupils to make choices and express their views through various communication methods, ensuring that every pupil's voice is celebrated and valued. Feedback from parents indicates a high level of satisfaction, with many describing the school as a family-like community. Parents appreciate the effective communication regarding their children's learning, particularly through home-school books and an app that shares updates and photographs of pupils' progress.
The school collaborates closely with health, social care, and local authority professionals to provide tailored support for pupils' medical and well-being needs. Behaviour management is handled effectively, with tailored support for those requiring additional help to regulate their behaviours. The curriculum is ambitious, with a strong emphasis on developing communication skills. Staff employ a variety of techniques, including Makaton and visual aids, to facilitate communication and learning. The reading curriculum is well-structured, focusing on essential skills such as sound recognition and memory development before introducing letters and sounds.
Pupils engage with a range of reading materials, and there is a concerted effort to foster a love of reading among students. The curriculum is designed to build cognitive skills through small, manageable steps, with practical applications in subjects like mathematics. Personal development is prioritized, with staff actively seeking pupils' opinions on various matters, reinforcing the importance of consent and personal boundaries. Enrichment activities enhance the curriculum, providing pupils with opportunities to engage with the community through visits to local parks, theatres, and other venues.
The school places a strong emphasis on preparing pupils for adulthood, working closely with families to identify suitable post-school placements. Staff accompany families on visits to potential new settings, ensuring that pupils can make informed decisions about their futures. Physical development is also a focus, with hydrotherapy sessions designed to improve pupils' physical abilities.
Ivy House School's commitment to safeguarding is evident, with effective arrangements in place to protect pupils. The school has not been previously inspected since its predecessor was deemed outstanding in March 2016. The inspection team conducted a thorough evaluation, including discussions with staff, pupils, and parents, to assess the quality of education and the effectiveness of safeguarding measures. Overall, Ivy House School continues to demonstrate excellence in its educational provision, ensuring that all pupils receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed.
