Alpha Learning Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent

What it's like to be a pupil at Alpha Learning Staffordshire

Alpha is a place where pupils reconnect with learning and develop hope for their futures. Many arrive having struggled in previous settings and often feel let down or misunderstood. Here, they are given time and support to rebuild confidence. Pupils begin to trust adults and feel able to share their anxieties and learning challenges. Relationships are key to this feeling of security. This is because staff are calm and always willing to do extra to support them. As a result, they invest in their relationships which serves to motivate them to want to do well. This has an impact of pupils' conduct. In time, their behaviour settles. In lessons, pupils follow routines and engage with their work. Learning continues even when issues arise. Pupils appreciate being given opportunities to take time out when needed. This provides time for the to self-regulate their emotions. Pupils feel safe and happy at this school. Harassment and unkindness are never accepted. Pupils benefit from small classes and individualised support. When learning is most effective, staff break learning into manageable steps so pupils feel able to complete it. Pupils are increasingly willing to contribute and talk about their work. They enjoy trips and wider activities that help them develop confidence, independence and social skills. Over time, pupils develop their ambitions and begin to think about life after school. They recognise that to be successful they need qualifications. For some, reengaging with education is a small but significant achievement. While others are able to access GCSE qualifications. The school understand that not all pupils do not achieve as well as they could in their daily learning. Parents and carers are extremely positive about the difference the school makes to their children's lives. Many celebrate their children feeling part of the school community. Seeing their child succeed in school for the first time makes them immensely proud.

What Ofsted says the school should do next

• Leaders should strengthen their processes for how they check on the impact of the curriculum, so that they have an accurate view of how well pupils are learning and ensure school development targets are delivered as intended.
• Leaders should ensure that staff apply agreed teaching approaches to adapt learning across subjects, so that all pupils are supported build their knowledge securely over time.
• Leaders should strengthen the teaching of writing, including handwriting, presentation and basic transcription skills, so that pupils can record and communicate their understanding accurately and fluently.
• Leaders should develop pupils' future aspirations and future destinations, so that all pupils are clear about their next steps and feel well prepared for the next stage of education, training or employment.

Alpha Learning excels at helping pupils who have struggled elsewhere to feel safe, supported and ready to learn again. The school's caring staff build strong relationships with pupils, giving them time to rebuild confidence and trust. Small classes and personalised support help pupils make real progress from their starting points, with many engaging in learning for the first time.

Safeguarding standards are met with an open and positive culture where all staff understand it is their responsibility, concerns are actively identified and managed, and pupils feel safe.

Boxing gym, food bank volunteering, local community projects, college visits, cultural food days, trips

Bus Stops