Fosse Way School in Radstock has been commended as a ‘highly inclusive’ environment where meeting pupils’ individual needs sits at the heart of everything it does, according to its latest Ofsted report.
The special school, which supports children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) aged three to 19, was inspected on 20 January 2026. Under Ofsted’s new-style report card, Fosse Way achieved a ‘Strong Standard’ and ‘Expected Standard’ across seven of eight categories, while also meeting safeguarding requirements.
Inspectors highlighted the school’s low absence rates and the strong relationships built between leaders, parents, carers and external agencies.
Pupils were praised for their behaviour and attitudes, with the report noting they are ‘positive role models’ who ‘show positive attitudes when learning and at social times’.
Leadership at the school was also singled out for praise. Inspectors noted that ‘leaders’ highly ambitious inclusion strategy sits at the heart of the school’s work’ and that it has a ‘palpable impact over time on the achievement and experiences of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)’.
Staff were recognised for their expertise in identifying and assessing individual needs, with ‘bespoke curriculum pathways’ helping pupils to develop the right knowledge and skills.
Fosse Way’s personal development programme was described as ‘ambitious and highly effective’. Pupils benefit from learning life skills such as food technology, online safety and artificial intelligence, alongside ‘high-quality’ work experience opportunities both off site and at the school’s learning café, Longfellows.
Inspectors also commended the school’s post-16 provision, noting that ‘leaders and staff have an unequivocal focus to prepare pupils for adulthood and ensure that pupils are ready for their next stage by the time they leave’.
Fiona Skinner, Headteacher at Fosse Way School, said, “This report highlights the many strengths that make Fosse Way School such a special place to learn and grow. It recognises our students’ excellent behaviour, our inclusive ethos, our strong personal development offer and the continued success of our sixth form.
“These are achievements we are extremely proud of and they reflect the dedication, professionalism and care shown by our entire staff team every day. We are particularly pleased that the report celebrates the positive culture within the school and the way our students are supported to thrive both academically and personally.”
The report did note that the Early Years provision requires further improvement.
Fiona added, “As a school, we had already identified some areas in this provision which we wanted to develop and had begun implementing improvements before the inspection took place. It is encouraging that the inspectors recognised this progress, and we are pleased with the significant strides that have already been made.
“We remain fully committed to continuing this work so that our youngest learners receive the very best possible start to their education.”
Fosse Way School is part of The Partnership Trust, a multi-academy trust of 17 schools across Bath & North East Somerset and Somerset.
Emily Massey, CEO of the Trust, said, “Congratulations to all at Fosse Way School and its wider community on such a positive Ofsted report. Given the current challenges in SEND education it is testimony to the school that they achieve above national average results and, as the inspectors noted, prepare each and every one of their students so well for life beyond school.”
Photos: Anna Barclay
