Three Ways School in Bath, which exclusively educates pupils with disabilities or learning difficulties through Education, Health and Care plans (EHCPs), has secured a rare ‘exceptional’ rating for its inclusion policies in its most recent Ofsted inspection.
Catering to 250 pupils, the school was praised for fostering an “inspiring and compassionate learning community” where pupils thrive. Inspectors highlighted the strong, positive relationships between staff and pupils, describing the environment as warm and supportive. The school’s comprehensive approach spans from early years education to sixth form, with a shared commitment to preparing pupils comprehensively for adult life.
One of the standout strengths identified by Ofsted was the school’s dedicated focus on enhancing pupils' communication skills. The report emphasises that all forms of communication, including signs, symbols, gestures, touch and language, are valued. Pupils receive expert support to express their needs and wishes, with no opportunities for communication overlooked, contributing to high engagement and strong progress from their individual starting points.
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Beyond the classroom, pupils benefit from diverse opportunities, such as performing as part of the school orchestra at Bath Abbey and engaging in partnerships with local football and rugby clubs. Sixth form students further develop their communication skills through practical work experience at the school’s community café, which welcomes the public during term time.
Ofsted now assesses schools across various categories rather than assigning a single overall grade. Three Ways School achieved an ‘exceptional’ rating in inclusion-a distinction that is both rare and challenging to attain. The report commended leaders and staff for their unwavering focus on overcoming barriers to learning, recognising the complex health and social care needs many pupils have, as well as their diverse family backgrounds.
Leaders demonstrated a thorough understanding of disadvantaged pupils' requirements and held high ambitions for every individual. The school earned ‘strong standard’ ratings in areas including achievement, attendance and behaviour, early years provision, leadership and governance, personal development and wellbeing, and post-16 provision. The curriculum and teaching were rated at the expected standard.
Headteacher Jo Stoaling expressed pride in the Ofsted findings, stating, “Receiving an exceptional grading for Inclusion is a huge honour and reflects the care our pupils show for one another and their community, as well as the pride they take in their achievements.”
She credited the success to the school’s dedicated staff, supportive families and carers, multi-agency partners and the wider local community, including the outreach service Brighter Futures that aids pupils in mainstream schools locally.
Looking ahead, the school trust is advancing plans for new special school campuses in Keynsham (Charlton House) and on the former Culverhay site (Green Ways) to expand SEND capacity within Bath and North East Somerset. This aims to provide more places for pupils in the area to continue shining.
Finally, the school extended thanks to the local community for supporting the Three Ways School and its 3 Cafe Kitchen work skills café, inviting visitors to enjoy coffee and cake when it reopens at the start of the September term. The headteacher also wished everyone a happy summer holiday.