Les Voies School assessed as good across the board

Two years ago the school, which teaches young people aged nine to 16 years old with emotional and mental health needs, was judged as inadequate in three classes and as needing improvement in the fourth category.

An interim report last year found that positive change was already happening. And the results of a full inspection at the end of September have now been published and found the school classed as good across all four categories.

‘Les Voies is a rapidly improving school,’ the report states.

The pupils often come to the school after long period of instability and with extra educational needs.

‘Pupils benefit from skilled staff who promote “routines, relationships and responses” effectively. Staff establish positive relationships and gradually increase what is expected of pupils once they have settled into school. Consequently, pupils’ attitudes to learning quickly improve and they typically experience success.’

Headteacher Jon Furley thanked all the school's staff for their hard work.

‘The staff have gone above and beyond to ensure that the needs of all our students are met,’ he said.

‘The school has been well supported to develop its curriculum and the high-quality practices that were observed by inspectors.

'I want to thank our parents and carers who support what we do and continue to work in partnership to secure the best outcomes for their children. I was pleased that the school was recognised as being “transformational for its students”.’

He also paid tribute to the school’s 46 pupils, saying that they ‘continue to break down barriers and be the best version of themselves.’

Director of Education Nick Hynes congratulated the school on its success.

‘Ofsted has now visited Les Voies three times in the past two years, and initially identified areas for improvement, which the team have now been able to build on and move the school to a position of achieving an exceptionally positive report,’ he said.

‘I know the team has worked tirelessly to reach this position, and I thank them all.'