Taunton’s Sky Academy meets Ofsted’s expected standards in all areas, according to a recent inspection which praised the school as ‘inclusive, warm and nurturing’.
Sky – which is a state-funded special school for children with additional social, emotional, mental health or communication needs – was being inspected for the first time under Ofsted’s new framework.
And the inspection team said Sky meets expected standards in the six key fields of pupil achievement, attendance and behaviour, inclusion, curriculum and teaching, leadership and student development and wellbeing.
Inspectors praised Sky for its positive culture, high ambitions and calm atmosphere which helps students settle and flourish.
In his report, lead inspector Gavin Summerfield said: “From the moment they join The Sky Academy, (pupils) are known and valued as individuals. Each morning, familiar staff greet them with friendly words and smiles, giving pupils an immediate sense of warmth and belonging.
“Pupils begin the day gently with time to catch up with friends, play games or eat toast. They transition into the school day with confidence and ease. This relaxed social time helps pupils feel settled and at ease, ready to learn.
“Pupils arrive with significant gaps in their knowledge and understanding. Many have low self-esteem, little confidence or have experienced barriers to their learning in the past. Despite this, the school is driven by a deep commitment and high ambition for all.
“Pupils benefit from a well-designed curriculum that supports their success. This leads to most pupils experiencing teaching that is well matched to their needs so that typically they leave with the qualifications they need to access the next stage of education or employment.”
Inspectors went on to praise Sky in each of the areas assessed.
On student achievement, Ofsted said: “The curriculum builds on pupils’ different starting points and individual special educational needs and/or disabilities. Pupils build their knowledge and grow in confidence the longer they stay at the school.”
On attendance and behaviour, inspectors said: “Some pupils have previously been out of education for considerable periods of time or developed an anxiety about school.
“Leaders continually explore a range of strategies to help these pupils address the personal challenges that hinder their regular attendance. Strong relationships underpin this. As pupils’ confidence increases, most are able to spend more time in school.
“If pupils struggle to manage their behaviour, the pastoral team takes swift and effective action to help them identify their feelings. Through targeted support and interventions, staff help pupils meet their emotional needs and develop the resilience to thrive.”
On curriculum and teaching, the report said: “The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum that builds on pupils’ existing knowledge, skills and understanding. Pupils follow well-established pathways that combine academic ambition with support for their needs.”
On inclusion, inspectors said: “Positive working relationships exist between staff, pupils and families. These relationships underpin the school’s effective work to ensure that pupils receive the help that they need to succeed and to achieve.”
On leadership, Ofsted said: “Since the school joined the new trust, leaders have driven clear and effective improvements across the school. They foster a compassionate and nurturing culture where everyone feels included.”
And on students’ personal development and wellbeing, inspectors added: “The school equips pupils well for life beyond school. Personal development is woven throughout the curriculum.
“Beyond the classroom, pupils take part in a wide range of activities including visits to museums, castles and a local zoo. Activities such as swimming, sailing and kayaking nurture pupils’ talents and encourage them to embrace new experiences. Residential trips further support their personal development, building character and resilience.”
Ofsted’s findings have been welcomed by leaders at The Sky Academy, and its parent trust the Cabot Learning Federation.
Gaby Long, Principal at The Sky Academy, said:
“I am delighted that The Sky Academy has been recognised by Ofsted as a warm, nurturing school where pupils feel safe, valued and supported to succeed. Our staff have high ambitions for every pupil, and this report acknowledges the dedication, expertise and understanding that underpins our culture.”
Steve Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the Cabot Learning Federation, said:
“Well done to the hard working and committed team at The Sky Academy for providing such an attractive offer for children and for creating an environment where all can belong and thrive. I am immensely proud of what our colleagues have been able to achieve in such a short space of time; the future looks even brighter!”
