Stepgates Community School

What inspectors noted positively.

• Pupils behave exceptionally well and demonstrate high levels of self-control.
• The specialist resource base provides highly effective and precisely tailored support.
• Phonics and reading are prioritized from the earliest stages in Nursery.
• Strong and trusted partnerships exist between the school and parents.
• The personal development curriculum effectively fosters compassion and resilience.

Neutral topics you may wish to explore.

• Inconsistency in curriculum planning for a small number of subjects where key knowledge is not clearly identified.
• Low attendance rates for many pupils, which prevents them from accessing the full curriculum.
• Efforts being made by leaders to strengthen working relationships with parents regarding pupil attendance.

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, supported by regular staff training and a strong culture where pupils know how to seek help.

Leaders are ambitious and determined to improve education, supported by a governing body that provides high-quality challenge and a staff that feels proud to work at the school.