Good Result for South Tyneside School

A South Tyneside school is celebrating after being graded as 'Good' in all areas by Ofsted.

The Beacon Centre - a pupil referral unit for children and young people between the ages of five and 16 with a range of social, emotional or mental health needs - was previously rated 'Requires Improvement.'

Inspectors found the school to be 'a positive, supportive environment where pupils do well.'

In their report, inspectors said: "Staff at the Beacon Centre make a difference to pupils' lives. Pupils receive care, guidance and support that improve their life chances.

"Pupils appreciate the time that staff take to listen to them. This makes them feel valued. There are adults to talk to if pupils have any worries. Pupils feel safe, both emotionally and physically. Bullying is not a problem at this school. Pupils get along well with each other and receive strong pastoral support from staff. Pupils are respectful and tolerant of each other.

"Some pupils find behaviour a challenge. Staff understand this and teach pupils strategies to manage their own emotions. Inappropriate behaviour is sensitively managed with firm, but fair, rules and boundaries. Pupils understand the school rules and feel that everyone is treated equally."

Inspectors also noted that the secondary school has a fully-functioning shop and salon where students can acquire skills to prepare them both for adulthood and the world of work.

Headteacher Dominick Gray said: "I am so pleased that the inspection recognised that our young people, across both Primary and Secondary, feel safe in school and look after each other. I am incredibly proud of all the staff and the students for their hard work and determination. It has been a great team effort, working alongside our amazing parents and carers and ongoing support from the local authority."

Councillor Jane Carter, Lead Member for Education and Skills, added: "This is a fantastic result for the Beacon Centre. I was delighted to note that the inspectors found it to be both a happy and calm school which makes a difference to pupils' lives. The staff, leadership, parents and young people are to be congratulated for this excellent outcome."