• Ofsted praises the “good quality education” delivered by teachers
• Enthusiastic staff form “positive relationships” with pupils
• Pupils make good progress “from their very low starting points”
• Pupils had a clear idea of what they wanted to do when the left school

A specialist school near Thetford has been rated ‘good’ by Ofsted overall and in every one of four categories.

School inspectors praised the school for its effective leadership and management, the quality of its teaching, and the personal development, behaviour and achievements of pupils.

Teachers were “enthusiastic” and had “positive relationships with pupils”, according to Ofsted.

The inspectors said, “Pupils make good progress from their very low starting points... As pupils progress through the school, the school’s support mechanisms develop their confidence… Pupils’ self-esteem clearly improves the longer they are at the school.” The inspectors praised the use of small classes and how the school catered to the young people’s individual needs.

The education provided was of a “good quality”, according to inspectors. They went on to say, “Pupils in year 11 who met with the inspector had a clear idea of what they wanted to do when they leave school at the end of the year.”

The report mentioned how the school leaders organise work placements to help pupils prepare for adulthood.

Sheridan School is a specialist school for boys and girls aged 8-18 years old with complex needs which include social, emotional and mental health difficulties. Some pupils also have additional needs such as autism, post-traumatic stress disorder or attachment disorder. The school is located near Thetford, Norfolk. It is managed by Aspris Children’s Services.

Head of School, said: “I am delighted with this report. It demonstrates the hard work that our staff do to support our pupils to reach their full potential. It is pleasing that we have received praise for our work experience and offsite activities, as we think this is very important to our pupils’ personal and social development.”

Managing Director for Central England and Wales at Aspris Children’s Services, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Paul and his staff team for having such a positive impact of the lives of the pupils they support. The report makes a brilliant read and it is excellent that Sheridan School has received praised in so many areas. I hope the pupils continue to make great progress.”