'Belonging' of New Milton school praised by Ofsted

Alternative provision school Eaglewood School was visited by inspectors at the end of February, and in an ungraded report published in March, the institution was praised for its ambition.

Ofsted's report said that there are ‘high expectations for pupils’ behaviour’, which the students live up to, also noting that pupils feel ‘safe and well supported’ with ‘highly positive attitudes about attending school’.

Furthermore, the report praised the development of pupils’ reading skills, which helps them remember their learning.

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Headteacher Mark Gilbert said: “The report is extremely positive and identified many areas in which the school excels.

“It notes various ways in which we can improve even further and we are now addressing those points.

“We were particularly pleased to see how inspectors said that children wanted to come to school despite many having experienced disrupted education in the past.

“This, they added, leads to a sense of belonging which means they are set up well for their futures."

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Mr Gilbert also said he was happy that inspectors picked out the school's "Eaglewood's Got Talent" show, which it said  ‘encapsulates the strength of the school’s commitment to pupils’ personal development’.

“At school we encourage students to show empathy and support each other, and this was recognised – as was the shared sense of joy about individual achievements," the headteacher continued.

“Our personal development programme was praised and our links with future employers was identified as a real positive feature.

“We will continue to do the best for the children at Eaglewood, something which is made easier by having such a talented and dedicated staff, and working within a supportive trust.

Students at Eaglewood School at a meet the employer event. (Image: Eaglewood School) Inspectors did however note that sometimes pupils' "academic learning needs and next steps" are not always precisely identified.

The Ofsted report said: "The school should ensure that information about pupils’ academic next steps is clearly identified and used to shape appropriate support and interventions."

Headteacher Mr Gilbert noted that "there are things we can improve" and said that he is sure parents know that the school is "working hard to give their children the best schooling possible".

Eaglewood is a mixed alternative provision provider for children aged seven to 16, with 90 students currently on roll.