Serenity School, Coulsdon Lane

What it's like to be a pupil at Serenity School

Pupils are appreciated and celebrated as individuals at this highly caring and nurturing school. Humour and warmth are the hallmark of everyday interactions between pupils and staff. Pupils develop a deep sense of belonging in this inclusive environment, where they feel motivated. They know staff will quickly support them in any challenges they face. This helps pupils, many of whom have had a previously negative experience of school, to re-engage with learning very effectively. They rediscover their joy of school life and enjoy learning. Pupils know that their voice matters and that staff will listen carefully to any concerns they have. They feel happy and safe. The school makes a difference to pupils' futures. Leaders and staff work effectively to help pupils gain the skills, confidence and qualifications they need to enhance their life chances. Post-16 students achieve a broad range of suitable qualifications. As a result, pupils and students are prepared for their next steps in education, employment and training. Pupils who need extra support benefit from a bespoke programme. This helps pupils to break down the multiple barriers to learning they face. For example, many pupils arrive with very low levels of attendance. The support leaders provide means that this improves rapidly and pupils' attendance is consistently high. Pupils' behaviour is excellent. This contributes to the deep sense of calm and harmony that pervades the school. The atmosphere in classrooms and around school is purposeful but relaxed. Pupils interact with others kindly and confidently. As one pupil said: ‘Serenity is the happiest place, where we all feel it is okay to be just who we are.' Bullying is rare and dealt with swiftly if it does occur. Staff act as positive role models for pupils. As a result, pupils learn how to regulate their emotions very effectively and manage challenging situations confidently. Pupils become increasingly independent and resilient. They learn essential skills for adulthood. They are well prepared for life in modern Britain.

What Ofsted says the school should do next

• Leaders should continue to ensure that teachers use their ongoing checks to address any gaps in pupils' knowledge effectively, so that pupils make consistently secure progress across the curriculum.

Serenity School excels at creating a caring, inclusive community where every pupil feels valued and supported. Staff are highly skilled at adapting teaching to meet individual needs, and the school works effectively with families and external professionals to help pupils overcome barriers to learning. Pupils develop strong life skills and confidence through personalised support and a rich range of activities.

Safeguarding standards are met. Leaders have established an open culture where safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, concerns are actively identified and managed, and pupils are made safer and feel safe.

Fencing, chess, knitting, debate, pottery, dance, sports, residential trips, supermarket visits, bank visits, cafe visits, work experience, employer visits, community projects

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Bus Stops