Following a one-day Ofsted inspection at Fosse Way Special School on 7th November, inspectors have confirmed that the school remains ‘Outstanding’.

In a letter to Executive Principal, Emily Massey, Ofsted inspector, Tonwen Empson, reports that Fosse Way’s leadership team “has maintained the outstanding quality of education in the school since the last inspection.” The letter goes on to detail the many features of the school’s educational provision that underpin this judgement.

Inspectors found that: “Leaders’ clear and precise understanding of the strengths and next steps for the school is used exceptionally well to maintain the highest quality of education at the school.”

Praise was extended to all who work at Fosse Way. The inspectors had found that teamwork across the school is “very strong”. It was also noted that “Relentless efforts by staff to look for creative solutions ensure that every pupil is able to thrive.”

In drawing conclusions about the quality of lessons, the report affirms that: “Teachers plan fun, inspiring, learning activities.”

Elsewhere in the report, the inspectors conclude that “Determination is a typical characteristic of staff.”

It goes without saying that all of the staff who work at Fosse Way are elated that their dedication to providing a first class education for all students has been recognised in this way.

A further aspect of Fosse Way School’s ethos that the Ofsed report highlights is the expectation that staff hold for pupils’ achievements. These were judged by the inspectors to be ‘very high’. Furthermore, the Ofsted team concluded that “There is a real commitment to ensure that pupils build not just their academic skills, but also develop their confidence and independence so that they can go on to lead fulfilling lives.”

One other characteristic intrinsic to the Fosse Way’s provision that inspectors found to be a “real strength” is “the outward-looking approach and the partnerships that are formed with other schools and business providers.” To exemplify this, inspectors cited the opportunities that Fosse Way’s Sixth Form students have to spend the final year of their education on site at the Royal United Hospital in Bath. Here, students are able to study in a specially-equipped classroom, while also developing skills pertinent to a variety of employment settings.

The students are supported in their endeavours by job coaches and careers guidance specialists. The inspectors were impressed, too, by Fosse Way’s facility for its most academic students based at Norton Hill School.

This provision currently enables seven students to access full-time mainstream education, including A level courses, with the support of Fosse Way teaching staff who are based at Norton Hill.

The inspectors noted, “…many have gained up to eight GCSEs; and some have gone on to universities following their successes.”

Indeed, one former Fosse Way student has gone on to graduate from Oxford, having achieved success at A level through this innovative venture.

Focusing on the facilities available to students on Fosse Way’s main Longfellow Road campus, the report states that: “Pupils value the educational and training experiences provided by the on-site Longfellow’s café, where they develop skills in customer services, cake-making and serving customers.”

The inspectors also found that “Work experience in the café supports pupils’ study of courses, such as BTEC National Diploma in hospitality.” These experiences have enabled pupils to gain employment in the catering industry or go on to college placements in this area.

Tonwen Empson concludes that: “With these exciting opportunities well established, the school is a positive and purposeful place. Teachers and support staff understand the education, health and care needs of pupils very well.”

In response to the high praise that abounds throughout the Inspectors’ report and the accompanying ‘Outstanding’ judgement, Executive Principal, Emily Massey, said: “I am absolutely delighted with this outcome and feel it reflects the hard work and dedication from pupils, staff, parents and governors, who all contributed to the inspection, not only on the day, but also throughout the school year to ensure our school remains Outstanding.

“Without their continued support, this outcome would not be possible.’’