A special educational needs school in Thatcham has been highly praised in its first Ofsted report.
The Grange School, in Church Gate, scored ‘Outstanding’ in all categories after its inspection in November, its first since opening in September 2023.
The Grange School, in Church Gate, was rated as ‘Outstanding’ in all four categories of its Oftsed report
The independent, co-educational school provides day placements for young people with autism, emotional and mental health needs and requiring further support with speech and language development.
In the report, inspectors praised the school for having a strong therapeutic provision and an “ambitious and well-structured curriculum” that allows staff to identify gaps in pupils’ learning.
It also recognised the focus on reading and phonics, adding “most pupils study many of the same texts as their peers in mainstream schools”, as well as the life skills like road safety and cooking pupils benefit from.
“The school is determined to provide pupils with an educational experience that meets their specific needs,” it summarised.
Rebecca Shaw, headteacher at The Grange School
The Grange currently supports 34 children aged seven to 14 with smaller class sizes and specialist, in-house speech and language therapy and counselling.
It is one of five schools and a further education college operated by education and residential care company Phoenix Learning and Care.
A spokesperson for the education service provider said: “Achieving ‘Outstanding’ in all areas is a tremendous acknowledgment of the dedication and expertise of our team in delivering high-quality, specialist education in a nurturing and therapeutic environment.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the multidisciplinary team who have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.
“Their tireless work, commitment and passion have made The Grange School a place where pupils can flourish academically, socially and emotionally.
“Looking ahead, we are excited to now begin developing our Key Stage 4 provision, expanding the school services to meet the needs of even more young people.
“This next phase will enable us to support our pupils further on their educational journey, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to achieve their full potential.”
A classroom inside The Grange, which opened in September 2023
It costs between £65,311 to £95,987 per year to support each pupil, reported Ofsted.
All pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan, a legal document outlining their special educational support requirements until the age of 25.
The school’s website confirms it is also able to access support and advice through referrals to Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and West Berkshire Council.