Remarkable journey to success as Undershaw school celebrates ‘Outstanding’ Rating in latest Ofsted Report.

Undershaw School, a specialist school in Surrey for children and young people with mild to moderate Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), is extremely proud to announce it has been awarded an Outstanding in all areas rating in its latest Ofsted inspection. This remarkable achievement marks a key milestone in the school's impressive growth and ongoing journey towards becoming a centre of excellence for SEND education.

The inspection, which took place in February, recognised the school’s exceptional commitment to supporting students, noting the outstanding quality of teaching, leadership, and the highly supportive environment that helps students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Key Highlights from the Ofsted Report include:

· The school’s ambition, dedication and unwavering support results in pupils achieving exceptionally well here.

· Staff share an unrelenting determination to ensure that pupils are well-prepared for life beyond the school gates.

· Pupils thrive in this nurturing and aspirational environment.

· The curriculum is meticulously tailored to meet the needs of pupils.

· The school’s commitment to preparing pupils for the future is exemplary.

Emma West, Headteacher for Undershaw said “We are thrilled to be recognised as Ofsted Outstanding. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and passion of our exceptional staff, students, and the entire school community. We are incredibly proud of everything we’ve accomplished together, and this report reflects our unwavering commitment to providing the best possible education. We will continue to strive for excellence, ensuring that every child thrives and reaches their full potential here at Undershaw.”

Unique history. Unique journey

Based in the former home of Sir Artur Conan Doyle, author of the infamous Sherlock Holmes series, the Undershaw success story is truly extraordinary. Having grown from relatively humble beginnings: it was borne from two parents desperately seeking a safe space locally for their child to be able to learn in the right environment, with the right support, at the right pace. Since then, the school has flourished: it now resides in a state-of-the-art facility offering children from varied backgrounds unique and personalised opportunities to grow.

To reach this milestone landmark today, Undershaw is truly a living embodiment of its literary legacy. Its unwavering belief in "eliminating the impossible," draws inspiration from its literary genius heritage, encapsulating its commitment to providing an education that transcends the challenges faced by its students. Undershaw firmly believes that additional needs should not hinder either aspiration or independence and that learners should be empowered to fulfil their personal potential in adulthood.

Undershaw places equal importance on pathways to employability. The Undershaw diploma, accredited by AQA and fostered by strong partnerships with an array of local businesses, is just one example of how pupils are immensely supported in the transition to independence, employability and to obtaining invaluable confidence-boosting life skills. 

In short, Undershaw makes a difference.