A renowned specialist school in north London has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.
TreeHouse School in Muswell Hill was founded in 1997 by a group of parents determined to create better educational opportunities for their autistic children. The school is run by the national charity Ambitious about Autism and supports over 100 autistic pupils aged three to 19.
Following a two-day inspection in June this year, TreeHouse School has retained its ‘outstanding’ Ofsted rating – with inspectors praising the school’s “highly ambitious” curriculum and staff’s “exceptional support” of autistic children and young people.
The report said that strong collaboration between TreeHouse School’s “caring” and “welcoming” teaching staff and its therapeutic teams resulted in aspirational targets and support for autistic pupils.
Inspectors noted that pupils take part in a range of activities to promote their personal development, including horse riding, swimming, skiing, yoga sessions and trips to museums, theatres and the cinema. Pupils also take part in school enterprise projects and work experience, with the report noting they leave school “very well prepared” for the next stage of their lives.
The report also highlighted the work of the school’s art and drama department which enables pupils to take part in a range of creative activities, including “joyful and confidence-building” Christmas and summer shows.
Ofsted inspectors also praised the school’s leadership team, the support it offers to parents and carers and measures taken to support staff wellbeing.
Joanna Dziopa, Head of TreeHouse School, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Ofsted has recognised the outstanding work taking place at TreeHouse School to help autistic pupils be themselves and realise their ambitions.
“I’m particularly pleased that the report recognised the work of our incredible staff team for the care and commitment they show to our pupils every day. I would like to thank them for their continuing hard work and dedication.”
TreeHouse School is a non-maintained special school that educates autistic pupils from across London and the Home Counties. Using the Ambitious Approach to education, pupils receive specialist and personalised support through a dedicated transdisciplinary team of qualified teachers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behaviour specialists.
TreeHouse School works hand-in-hand with parents and carers, local schools, community groups and employers to maximise opportunities for pupils to enjoy school, succeed in their learning and transition to a fulfilling and rewarding adult life.
