A series of reforms has been introduced at a special school in Telford which was branded as ‘totally ineffective’ in its last Ofsted report.
A series of reforms has been introduced at a special school in Telford which was branded as ‘totally ineffective’ in its last Ofsted report.
The news comes after Telford MP David Wright urged Telford & Wrekin Council to take a radical new look at how Southall Special School in Dawley runs education for vulnerable children after its recent “special measures” crisis.
The changes to the school include the addition of two new school governors, including a former specialist school headteacher and a former Lead Officer for the Local Authority on School Improvement.
Other suggested changes are, a review of the school’s curriculum, better administration for the school, and more support for the pupils.
Mr Wright said: “What we need to do is come together as a community to ensure that Southall school moves out of the special measures status as quickly as possible.
“We need to provide individual support packages for pupils to ensure that they get the very best educational opportunities.
“Tailored support for children is crucial, particularly for the more vulnerable children in society who need comprehensive support.”
Parents say that problems were caused after children with emotional and behavioural difficulties were enrolled alongside those with learning difficulties.
They want to see children with learning difficulties taught separately from those with emotional problems.
A spokesman for Telford & Wrekin Council said that they would ‘consider any changes needed to the internal organisation of the school.’
Councillor Stephen Burrell, lead member for children and young people, said: “Since Southall School’s latest Ofsted report, both the school and local authority have been working closely to implement a robust action plan, which is supported by experienced professionals at a number of levels.
“We have moved quickly to put a number of measures into place which will ensure speedy improvements to standards in all areas of the school.
“The school has already informed parents of its intention to create a Parents Forum and we would encourage parents to become actively involved.
“The council is currently working with Southall School to review its curriculum offer and to consider any changes needed to the internal organisation following the publication of the Ofsted report.”
Other measures that have been put in place are a School Improvement Partner who will work along side the present leadership team and the use of audits which will look at behaviour, management and support.
There will also be more individual support programs for pupils who need them, following complaints by worried parents.
