Aurora Cedars School received 'GOOD' Ofsted rating

Aurora Cedars in Wolverhampton which opened in June 2023 is thrilled to have its first Ofsted inspection and it’s been rated Good.

Headteacher Zoe Free said: “We're thrilled with the results of our inspection and so pleased that the outcome reflects the growth and development of our school over such a short period of time.  I feel so blessed to be surrounded with great professionals that have enabled us to create something so bespoke and wonderful over the last 18 months.”

“We're very proud of this achievement and grateful to our dedicated staff, supportive parents and carers, and amazing pupils for making Aurora Cedars School the community it is.”

Ofsted inspectors said: “Aurora Cedars School is characterised by the warm and trusting relationships between pupils and adults. Staff have carefully created an environment in which pupils are respected, listened to and valued. As a result, pupils feel safe and soon begin to flourish.”

“Pupils joining the school often have had difficult previous experiences and disruption to their education. The school takes time to get to know its pupils and uses the individualised transition period to make sure that it understands exactly what pupils do well and what support they may need. As a result, by the time they attend fulltime, pupils get the right help from staff, alongside high-quality therapeutic support.”

They also said: “Staff are, rightly, very proud to work at the school. They say that leaders support them well and that they receive excellent support to develop their expertise and skills. This has helped to create a positive school culture where staff and pupils feel recognised and appreciated.”

The report graded:

• The quality of education: Good
• Behaviour and attitudes: Good
• Personal development: Good
• Leadership and management: Good

Aurora Cedars is a specialist school providing personalised, tailored academic and therapeutic support in a calm, nurturing environment for students aged 5-19 with social, emotional and mental health needs, including those who face communication and behavioural challenges associated with Autism spectrum conditions.