SEND school given outstanding review by Ofsted

Castle East School was opened in 2021 to improve SEND provisions in Suffolk

A school that was opened to improve an area's special educational needs and disability (SEND) provision has received the top grade in its first inspection.

Castle East School in Bungay, Suffolk is a school for pupils with communication and interaction needs from Year 5 to Year 11.

It was opened in September 2021 and has been rated as outstanding by Ofsted who said pupils thrived at this "inspirational school".

Headteacher Anna Mears said the inspectors' comments around parents viewing the school as "transformation" was a highlight for her.

"The feedback we've had from parents saying they feel like they've got their children back - that for any leader or school is going to be an amazing thing to hear."

Ms Mears said school staff were "absolutely over the moon" with the result.

In all areas reviewed, including quality of education and leadership and management, the school was graded as outstanding.

"The decisions we make around our children are all about them and what is best for them but having the external validation of Ofsted has been fantastic," Ms Mears added.

The 80 pupils at the school were "exceptionally proud" of the result according to the headteacher.

She said they were "sensational" during the two-day inspection.

'Remarkable'

Ofsted inspectors, who visited the school on 19 and 20 March, said staff offered pupils "kindness, care and help".

While the school's impact on pupils' academic and personal development was seen as "remarkable".

"The school has created an ambitious curriculum that is well adapted to meet the needs of pupils," the Ofsted report read.

"Through this curriculum pupils achieve well, regardless of their starting points.

"They are well prepared for their next steps and life beyond the school."