Wilburton school rated outstanding by inspectors

A school in Wilburton has once again been rated as ‘outstanding’ by Government inspectors.

Ofsted said that The Harbour, in Station Road, provided “high quality, well-planned residential care that supports individual progress extremely well”.

The Harbour is a special school for more than 70 male pupils aged up to 16 who have emotional or behavioural difficulties.

In her report, Ofsted inspector Deirdra Keating said: “The progress pupils make with their social skills, independence skills and self-confidence is highly evident.

“Pupils become more self-reliant and independent during their time in the residential provision. Staff set individual targets with pupils and review these regularly. Independent self-care skills are strongly fostered according to each pupil’s ability. “Parents and carers say this has a positive impact at home. This prepares pupils for a successful transition when they move on.”

In order to keep on improving, inspectors said the school needed to update the décor and furnishings in its communal areas.

But the inspection noted that safety was outstanding and that staff checking procedures ensured that pupils were protected.

Ms Keating noted: “Safe recruitment of staff is demonstrated in the meticulous personnel files that evidence thorough checking procedures. This ensures that pupils are cared for by suitable adults and protected against potential harm.”