Increased expectations are raising standards at Aspire Academy at Odd Down in Bath, says Ofsted.
The education watchdog inspected the special school at Frome Road in April and has published its report this week.
The school, which takes pupils from the age of four to 19, had last been inspected by Ofsted in 2017 and has retained its Good rating.
There are 99 pupils on the roll at Aspire Academy, and most have more than one identified special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
Aspire became an academy in April 2014 and is part of the Futura Learning Partnership.
Last year North Star Academy Trust was commissioned by the Department for Education to work with Futura to develop the school’s offer for pupils with SEND.
Admission to Aspire Academy is commissioned by Bath & North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Bristol and Wiltshire councils.
In their report, the inspectors said that at Aspire, pupils learn how to be enthusiastic and successful learners: “For many pupils, this contrasts with their previous experience of education.
“Careful consideration of pupils’ special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) shapes the school’s curriculum design.
“With appropriate support from skilled staff, pupils achieve the school’s aspirations. Effective use of praise, encouragement and challenge means individual pupils’ needs are well met.”
Relationships between staff and pupils are said to be strong. Pupils feel safe and most are keen to attend school regularly.
As part of their personal and social development, pupils explore what it means to be part of a community with school activities such as fundraising for charities and camping together. Career guidance and work experience help pupils to learn important life skills that prepare them well for adulthood.
The report continues: “Increased expectations for pupils’ learning and behaviour are raising standards. The highly individualised curriculum ensures that pupils gain recognised qualifications before moving on to college or employment post-16. Pupils know that practice helps them to learn and reach their potential.”
On the joint working between Futura and the North Star Academy Trust, the inspectors observed: “Significant changes to the school’s curriculum and behaviour expectations have had a substantial and positive impact on pupils’ development in a short time.
“The newly formed leadership team has carefully considered how to ensure these changes are manageable for staff, well understood by staff and sustainable.
“Checks on school development priorities are frequent and accurate. Consequently, there is an ambitious and shared vision for school improvement.”
The number of subjects is growing to offer pupils more options. This academic year, pupils are completing GCSE qualifications.
The report also highlights: “The school has worked relentlessly to embed routines and raise expectations for pupils’ learning behaviour. This can be seen in the calm and purposeful learning environments.
“Pupils’ behaviour and attendance have significantly improved over the past year. Pupils’ social and emotional needs are woven into lesson structure and content.”
The safety and welfare of pupils are said to sit at the heart of the school’s work.
