Shorefields School, Clacton-on-Sea

What is it like to attend this school?

This school does not rest on its laurels. Staff explore every option to give pupils a voice. The sharp focus on helping pupils to communicate means that pupils are learning to read, count and understand the world around them. Parents highly appreciate the level of care and attention their children receive. Pupils happily undertake many everyday activities that previously were problematic for families, such as going to the dentist or brushing their hair.

The high ambitions staff have for pupils mean that no barrier is too high to climb. If a communication aid does not work for a pupil, staff will try another. If a pupil cannot regulate their behaviour, they will provide sessions, such as sensory stimuli and music, to help them be ready for learning. The warm, close relationships between staff and pupils means that staff readily read mood, wants and needs. This enables staff to effectively choose resources and equipment which will help pupils develop.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school's ambitious goal of creating meaning in pupils' lives and preparing them for adulthood is effectively realised. Post-16 students are successful in securing their next steps, including work placements. Pupils' social and emotional development, as well as the targets on their education, health and care (EHC) plans, are interwoven through the curriculum. The bespoke delivery and the close checking of pupils' learning and engagement enable pupils to flourish.

Learning to communicate is at the heart of the school's work. Most pupils are non-verbal or have limited speech. Staff follow diligently the school's framework to develop pupils' communication. After one half term, Reception children express what they need through signing and the use of symbols. Staff have expert knowledge of how to rephrase their language to be understood. They model carefully key questions and answers, such as how to greet and initiate conversation. Their use of communication aids, inside and outside of the classroom, are making a significant difference to pupils' lives. Parents receive training on how to replicate their use at home and this reinforces pupils' learning. As a result, pupils who cannot speak can communicate via other means. Thus, they show what they know and understand, enjoy their learning and form new friendships.

Leadership & management.

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