MIDDLESBROUGH’S Oaktree Centre – a pupil referral unit for young people with specific educational needs – has received praise from Ofsted.
The latest inspection of the centre, based in Pallister Park, rated it as good across the board and commended pupils, staff, the headteacher and board of governors.
In praising the behaviour of pupils and their often “excellent” relationship with staff, the report says: “This is because of the upbeat and happy working atmosphere and the excellent role models provided by staff. Consequently, there is a strong sense of belonging and pride in the school.”
It goes on: “The inspirational and vibrant leadership of the headteacher ensures that the quality of learning is constantly improving. Her high ambitions are shared by a diligent and skilled team of staff.
“The strong governing body is effective, challenging and supportive. Governors are sharply focused upon ensuring the best possible outcomes for pupils. They maintain a close check on the quality of teaching and learning.
“Teaching is good with occasional examples of inspiring and imaginative practice. Inspection evidence and the school’s own monitoring records reveal continuous improvement in the quality of teaching since the previous inspection.
“Pupils respond positively to the high expectations that are set by staff, particularly developing effective self-control. They quickly acquire the habit of working hard and they are very clear about the boundaries that are set for their conduct. Any low-level disruption in lessons is handled skilfully by staff.”
Middlesbrough Council’s Head of Complementary Services Linda Harries said: “The report reflects how effectively and closely we work with our primary schools and how well our young people are supported within the school environment. It’s a real team effort.”
To improve even further he recommended that expectations of pupils are raised higher still and helping them be more patient in their learning, ensuring teachers constantly test pupils’ knowledge and provide concise and clearly defined steps to improve their work.
Chair of governors Cllr Jan Brunton, who is also Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Education and Skills, said: “There were many pleasing aspects of this report and I would like to praise the staff and the pupils for making Oaktree such a positive environment for education.”