What Ofsted thought of Brookfield School in Poulton at inspection
“The school has a nurturing and caring culture that encourages pupils to succeed”
A special school at Poulton achieved the expected standard in all six Ofsted categories at its latest inspection.
Brookfield School on Fouldrey Avenue, which has a capacity of 97 pupils aged from 11 to 16, was ranked consistently by the inspectors in achievement; attendance and behaviour; curriculum and teaching; inclusion, leadership and governance and personal development and wellbeing.
Pupils recently raised hundreds of pounds for charity by walking from the school to the top of Blackpool Tower and back, and Ofsted said that it has “a nurturing and caring culture that encourages pupils to succeed”.
The report continued: “Many pupils have had previously disrupted school experiences. They develop warm and trusting relationships with staff. This helps them to feel safe and happy.
“Pupils are confident that staff would resolve any bullying quickly if it happened. Pupils follow individual programmes that support them to develop socially and emotionally. They make steady academic progress from their starting points.
“Pupils follow well-established routines. This helps them to manage their emotions and feel more settled. A variety of therapies, including physical activities, music and art promote a sense of calm.
“The pupils enjoy having breakfast and lunch together with staff. This sets them at ease with each other and fosters a sense of belonging.”
The report said that pupils are kind and respectful towards each other and staff, adding: “They typically behave well and engage in their learning.
“Pupils’ resilience and their rates of attendance improve over time because of the encouragement and skilful care that they receive from dedicated staff.
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“The pupils benefit from a wealth of activities that promote their mental health and wellbeing. These include canoeing, mountain-biking and football.
“During breaktimes, pupils develop their teamwork and physical skills by playing basketball and cricket together enthusiastically.
“Pupils’ opinions are valued and they have a genuine voice in the school. They have influenced Friday enrichment choices, lunch menus and successfully campaigned for a tuck shop, which has recently opened.
“School councillors play an active role in decisions about playground equipment. Pupils enjoy taking on responsibilities, such as raising money for charities.
“Pupils are well prepared for adulthood. They develop important life skills, for example planning visits to places of interest in different parts of the country.
“This builds their confidence, reduces anxiety and fosters their independence.”