A SCHOOL near Wem for children with social, emotional and mental health issues has been rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

The one-word rating was received by Smallbrook School, in Sleap, was given on Monday, September 9 , comes from an inspection carried out between Monday, June 25, and Wednesday, June 27.

One-word ratings will no longer be given to schools inspected after September 1.

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Inspectors said the school, which works with children special needs and/or disabilities, is a ‘special place to learn’ where ‘care, nurture and a sense of belonging permeate every aspect’.

The report, created by inspection team Bianka Zemke and Niall Gallagher, said the school, which is part of the Acorn Education Trust, provides ‘joyous’ relationships.

It added: “Smallbrook School is a special place to learn. Leaders and the proprietor have set high aspirations for themselves, their staff and their pupils.

“All adults are committed to helping pupils to succeed. The vocational aspect of the curriculum is exceptionally successful in making these aims a reality.

“All pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and an education health and care (EHC) plan. Almost all have previously been out of education for a long time.

“Leaders make their school the best it can be for all pupils. All adults want pupils to achieve their very best and they consistently do.

“Pupils love their school, do well and now attend regularly. Care, nurture and a sense of belonging permeate every aspect of the school.


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“Leaders sharply focus on pupils’ well-being. The curriculum to promote pupils’ personal and character development is highly effective. As a result, pupils re-engage in their education and learn to trust again.

Through the excellent extra-curricular offer, pupils learn valuable life skills and are exceptionally well prepared for life after school. The school is a calm, positive and orderly environment. Lessons are free from disruption.

“The purposeful, supportive and positive relationships between staff and pupils are joyous.”