New SEND Redstone Hall School in Ipswich praised by Ofsted

Redstone Hall School has been given a positive outcome from its Ofsted pre-registration inspection, with inspectors reporting that the specialist school is "likely to meet all the independent school standards when it opens."

The inspection found that the school’s planned curriculum is "broad, balanced and ambitious", designed specifically to meet the needs of pupils with SEND, and includes detailed provision for early numeracy, literacy and personal development.

Inspectors noted that Redstone Hall has prepared a "well-sequenced" curriculum ready for individualised learning pathways and has appropriate assessment arrangements in place to support each pupil’s progress.

Classrooms have been totally refurbed and left with a blank canvas ready for teachers to decorate later (Image: Polaris Education)

The pre-registration report also highlighted that the proposed school has comprehensive plans for promoting pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, including teaching fundamental British values and providing enrichment activities.

Ofsted also found that the welfare, health and safety arrangements are robust, with detailed safeguarding policies, staff training programmes and health and safety checks ready to be implemented from day one.

The proprietor has ensured secure and suitable accommodation with spacious classrooms, appropriate facilities and outdoor space designed to support pupils’ well-being and learning.

Leadership and management plans were judged to be strong, with knowledgeable governors and staff experienced in supporting children with complex social, emotional and mental health needs.

Reading nook inside the newly refurbished Redstone Hall School (Image: Polaris Education)

Redstone Hall will cater for up to 30 pupils aged seven to 16 with a range of additional needs including social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges.

The school, part of the Polaris Children’s Services group, is based in a historic central Ipswich building in Fore Street and aims to open in this month.

Headteacher Tanya Fuller said the school’s aim is to provide a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally, supported by tailored learning and therapy-informed approaches.

Tanya Fuller is the newly appointed head teacher at Redstone Hall School (Image: Polaris Education)