Parents at Arc Oakridge School in Birmingham have shown their appreciation for the school’s curriculum, learning opportunities and its work to build independent learning and enable progress in a new survey carried out by the school.

The survey results follow strong examination results including in Maths, English and Science, for the school’s Year 11 leavers over the summer.

The parents of children at Arc Oakbridge school have experienced the heartbreak and frustration of seeing their child struggle to learn, to have fun and feel safe in mainstream schools, and, sometimes, in other special schools, before finally securing a place at the school, which offers places for boys and girls aged seven to sixteen who have a diagnosis of ASC.

For parents, seeing their children begin to enjoy school, make friendships and trust teachers, having them running from the car to the school front door, and look forward to a Monday morning are often new experiences.

Academically, many children who join the school are several years behind what might be expected of a child their age. Crucially, this is very often not due to cognitive factors, but the simple result of a child not having the right support, curriculum and relationships to motivate learning.

At Arc Oakbridge, with each child having learning and behavioural goals in place, and SENCO support, and access to a broad curriculum and a host of off-site trips, activities, class challenges and projects, children who were falling behind, make progress, and feel happier.

In the survey:

• Over 90% of parents agreed that “the school curriculum is right for my child”
• Over 95% agreed that “my child experiences a wide variety of learning opportunities”
• Over 80% agreed that “my child is becoming a more independent learner”
• Over 80% agreed that “my child is making good progress”

The survey was open to all parents and carers, and represents all children who have been with the school, including those who started only a few weeks ago in September.

Headteacher Phil Petch says:

“These children are fantastic. They want to learn, they want to try new things, they want to follow their own interests. From Buddhism to the impact of knife crime, they put thought and effort into everything they do and bring huge amounts of curiosity. Enabling children to learn and progress opens doors for them. That is what we do.

“Equally, having parents feel able to take up employment or study, because they no longer need to stay home waiting for ‘that call from school’ is hugely meaningful to all of the staff here. We work hard to get it right. Every child is unique, and I’m beyond proud of the teaching staff and all colleagues at the school who have contributed to these fantastic results.”