North Ridge Community School, located in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening. The inspection took place on October 8 and 9, 2024, and the school received positive feedback across various areas. The quality of education was rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development, were rated as outstanding. Leadership and management, along with early years provision and sixth-form provision, were also rated as good.
The headteacher, Sam MacDonald, leads the school, which is part of the Nexus Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Warren Carratt and a board of trustees chaired by Rachel Potts. The school is designed to cater to pupils with complex special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students have an education, health, and care plan in place.
Pupils at North Ridge Community School enjoy a welcoming environment where they feel safe and valued. The positive relationships between staff and students contribute to a joyful atmosphere filled with laughter. Staff maintain high expectations for pupils, and the curriculum is ambitious, aiming to build knowledge across subjects and the wider world. However, there are instances where teachers may not select the most suitable activities to deliver the curriculum, which leaders are addressing through staff training.
Behaviour among pupils is exceptional, with staff understanding and meeting their sensory and communication needs. This support begins in early years and continues through to the sixth form, ensuring that pupils are ready to learn. Pupils actively participate in school life, collaborating with leaders to enhance their environment, such as contributing to the design of a new playground.
The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, providing a rich array of experiences beyond the curriculum. Activities such as school discos, climbing walls, trips, and a pupil parliament help broaden pupils' horizons and foster personal growth. The school has adapted well to the diverse needs of its pupils, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and has implemented a consistent lesson model that supports pupils' learning expectations.
In early years, children benefit from resources that aid communication and language development, and they are well-prepared for key stage one. The school prioritizes teaching reading, employing effective strategies to ensure pupils read fluently. Staff provide tailored support for pupils with communication needs, breaking learning into manageable steps to build confidence.
Pupils are taught essential social skills, which have a transformative impact on their lives. They attend school willingly, feeling a sense of belonging, and exhibit exemplary behaviour. The school fosters an inclusive environment where friendships flourish.
The sixth form provision is strong, although some pupils may have gaps in their knowledge. The curriculum is being refined to address these gaps, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their next steps in education or employment. They receive valuable career advice and transition support.
Staff morale is high, with teachers supporting the headteacher's vision and appreciating the focus on their professional development. The board of trustees plays an active role in monitoring the school's progress and improvements.
Overall, North Ridge Community School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes personal and academic growth. The school is well-positioned to continue its development and address areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teaching staff are equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively.
