Miniland Farm, Passfield, Nr Liphook

What it's like to be a pupil at Miniland Farm

Pupils are cherished members of the community at Miniland Farm. Many join after long periods of disrupted education and irregular attendance at other schools. They often feel hesitant about their return to learning. Staff thoroughly consider pupils' transition into the school to help them settle in as quickly as possible. They build trusting and positive relationships with pupils. This helps pupils develop a powerful sense of belonging at the school. The school has created a culture where pupils value their learning. All pupils at the school have an education, health and care plan. The school effectively removes barriers to learning so that all pupils take part fully in school life and achieve well. Staff successfully support and tailor the curriculum to pupils' learning needs. This allows pupils to enjoy their learning and make progress from their individual starting points. The school's farm setting plays a vital role in pupils' daily experiences. Pupils enjoy making meaningful connections between their classroom learning and practical activities on the farm. For example, they apply their science knowledge when tending to the school garden and taking part in animal care and handling activities. Time with the animals gives pupils a sense of purpose and enjoyment, helping them manage their emotions and rebuild their self‑esteem. Pupils work towards recognised qualifications which develops their ambition for potential next steps. Pupils are increasingly confident and communicate well with staff and their peers. As they settle in the school, pupils typically manage their emotions effectively. Bullying is rare. Pupils get along well with one another and learn the importance of mutual respect. Pupils experience a calm and positive school environment. They are happy, safe and proud to belong to this welcoming school community.

What Ofsted says the school should do next

• Leaders should continue to prioritise developing staff expertise and the effective use of assessment across the curriculum. This will ensure that pupils are supported to transfer knowledge securely into their long-term memory.
• Leaders should continue to embed school systems and make effective use of insightful analysis to achieve their goal of securing consistently strong standards across all areas.

Miniland Farm excels at helping pupils who have experienced disrupted education and trauma to rebuild their confidence and love of learning. The unique farm setting is central to the school's success, providing rich practical learning experiences and helping pupils manage emotions through animal care. Staff build strong, trusting relationships with pupils and create an inclusive community where every child feels valued and equipped with skills for their next steps.

Safeguarding standards are met - leaders have established an open culture where safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and concerns are actively identified and managed, making pupils safer and helping them feel safe.

Fire Horse Festival (pupil-designed), Chinese New Year celebrations, animal care activities with chickens, pigs, horses and ducks, school garden work, recognised qualifications programmes

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