Celebrating Our Recent Ofsted Inspection! 

We are absolutely thrilled to share the official results of our recent Ofsted inspection, which took place on 27th and 28th April 2026.

As a team, we are incredibly proud of the outcomes, which reflect the tireless dedication, passion, and hard work of our staff, governors, trustees, and—most importantly—our wonderful pupils.

At Fern House School, we strive to create an environment where every child feels safe, understood, and empowered to succeed. We are delighted that the inspectors recognised the strengths of our school community.

Our Inspection Judgements

Ofsted's evaluation highlighted the high standards being maintained across the board at Fern House School:

• Safeguarding Standards: MET (Our open culture ensures safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, and pupils are safe and feel safe).

• Inclusion: Strong Standard 

• Leadership and Governance: Strong Standard 

• Achievement: Expected Standard

• Attendance and Behaviour: Expected Standard

• Curriculum and Teaching: Expected Standard

• Personal Development and Wellbeing: Expected Standard

   

What Ofsted Said About Our School

The report highlighted so much of what makes Fern House School a unique and nurturing place to learn. Here are a few key highlights that make us particularly proud:

A Safe and Happy Environment

"Pupils are safe and happy at this inclusive school... Pupils quickly settle because they enjoy the security and familiarity of the routines the school has put in place. They swiftly build positive working relationships with staff."

Exceptional Leadership & Staff Pride

The inspectors noted that leaders, governors, and trustees work tirelessly to put our pupils' interests first. They also highlighted the amazing culture among our team:

"Staff are proud to work at the school. They feel valued by leaders. Many talk of the sense of achievement they feel in working with the pupils here and they enjoy their work."

Inclusion and Pastoral Care

Our commitment to high-quality, inclusive practice was rated as a Strong Standard. The report noted that pastoral care is a true strength of the school, with staff expertly trained to understand and support our pupils' social, emotional, and mental health needs.

Preparing Pupils for the Future

The report recognised that when pupils leave Fern House, they typically have the knowledge and skills they need for their next steps in education, employment, or training—including vital skills for independent living.

We want to say a massive thank you to our entire school community—our dedicated staff, the Connect Education Trust, and our parents and carers, who speak so warmly of the care given here. Your ongoing support allows us to keep championing your children every single day.

- Laura Astarita, Headteacher & The Fern House School Team