Silverways School in Enfield, North London, opened in 2021 and now supports more than 30 children and young people. This was its first full inspection since opening and inspectors found the school to be “Good” in all areas and to be helping pupils “achieve well”.

In their report, inspectors noted that before coming to Silverways, pupils had often had very negative experiences of school and many had missed extended periods of their education. The team at Silverways, they said, worked with children individually to carefully assess and meet their needs, helping them “build confidence” and “value learning” once again.

The report notes: “As a result, over time, pupils attend regularly. They develop an interest in learning and behave well in lessons. These positive attitudes aid pupils to gain new knowledge and achieve well.”

Silverways is part of the Kedleston Group of schools and offers a specialist educational environment to support young people with an autism spectrum condition.

Inspectors described the curriculum offered as “broad and ambitious” and praised the emphasis Silverways puts on preparing pupils for future independent living with the inclusion of subjects such as financial management.

The school’s work on the development of social skills for pupils is also praised with the report noting that therapist-led social skills sessions, and visits to restaurants and cinemas: “Help prepare them (the children) to engage positively with others, including in wider society. Leaders also plan other enrichment activities, including, for example, visits to the Globe Theatre and the Houses of Parliament.”

Head Teacher Jeanette Maynard said: “It Is a privilege to work with the young people and their families here at Silverways. We’re thrilled the Ofsted report reflects the hard work of our young people, the invaluable support we receive from their families and the dedication of our staff.”