The day and residential special school based in Ventnor, focuses on supporting students with speech, language and communication needs. Ofsted visited the school and college in January to complete its yearly Social Care Inspection. The inspectors’ report noted, “Students enjoy a consistently warm and nurturing atmosphere, where staff understand and respond to their individual needs. Independence is promoted through communication, self-care and daily routines, with a strengths-based approach helping students to build skills and confidence.” 

The report highlighted several areas of strengths:

• Students feel safe, understood and supported by staff who respond thoughtfully to their needs. 
• Staff show strong commitment to wellbeing, ensuring consistent access to speech and language therapy and occupational therapy.
• Online safety is a strength, with leaders providing guidance to students and families, with consistent messaging across school and home. Consistent support helps students stay safe and make responsible choices, both in school and at home.
• Families describe the care as consistent, nurturing and life-changing.  

Sarah Thompson, Principal of St Catherine’s, said, “We are thrilled by the Ofsted inspectors’ judgement and their amazing comments about the residential provision at St Catherine’s. The report reflects the commitment of our team, who endeavour to achieve the best possible outcomes for our students.”

St Catherine’s School and College is one of the few schools in the country that specialises in supporting students with speech, language and communication needs.