Referral unit passes first Ofsted (From Warrington Guardian)

Longbarn pupil referral unit passes first Ofsted inspection

2:35pm Thursday 5th April 2012 in News

THE pupil referral unit in Longbarn has passed its first Ofsted inspection.

The New Horizons School, which caters for children aged 11 to 16 who have been taken out of mainstream education, received a score of satisfactory.

Karen Thomson, head teacher at the school on Fallowfield Grove, said: “We believe we have achieved a good deal of progress over the past year or so by having high expectations and prioritising learning, while at the same time providing a safe and caring environment.”

The inspection took place on February 28 with eight lessons and six staff observed by inspector Linda Clare.

All major elements such as achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour, safety, leadership and management were rated satisfactory.

The environment is welcoming, students develop well and teaching is improving, the report said.

Respect is shown to staff and personalised learning helps youngsters new to the unit, it added.

Ofsted did note areas that need improving. Attainment in English needs to be raised with better strategies used to help students with writing skills.

The curriculum at key stage four also needs developing, said the education watchdog.

Mrs Clare said: “Parents and carers indicate that they are generally pleased with the quality of teaching provided for their children.

“Students generally respond positively to staff and teaching is underpinned by a caring and supportive environment.

“Behaviour is mostly satisfactory around school and issues in lessons are managed discreetly.”

l To view the report go to ofsted.gov.uk.