A SCHOOL which does not have the space to put on PE lessons has been told it needs to improve by inspectors.
And Ofsted has highlighted the fact there is no ‘suitably qualified fire marshal or first aider’ at Greater Manchester Alternative Provision.
The 14-pupil establishment, on Blandford Street in Ashton-under-Lyne, caters for 11-16-year-olds described as being ‘disengaged from education.’
Walks in a nature reserve, park or by a canal were praised as they help educate more about the local community and support a healthy lifestyle.
But while a number feel more positive about their experiences, there are still issues over attendance and the curriculum they are taught.
A report states: “Pupils value the time and attention that staff here give to them. Typically, pupils said that they are much happier in this school and come to school more than previously.
“Pupils respond positively to the help that staff provide to support them in their learning. The school has a calm atmosphere, and pupils behave well.
“By the end of key stage 4, most pupils achieve the qualifications that they need to move on to the next stage of their education.
“However, some pupils do not attend as well as they should and the school’s curriculum does not enable pupils to study a broad enough range of subjects.
“Nor does it take into account pupils’ prior knowledge in some subjects. Pupils do not experience physical education (PE). They also do not have access to technological or creative education.
“This means that some pupils do not develop the breadth of knowledge that they need for their future lives.”
Greater Manchester Alternative Provision, which is a Wilmslow-based company owned by Cerise Pike, was prised by Ofsted for the work it did with pupils around personal and health education.
The report adds: “The school has developed a comprehensive personal, social and health education (PSHE) and relationships and sex education curriculum.
“They are designed to meet the specific needs of pupils, including helping them to make healthy lifestyle choices.
“The school also helps pupils to develop resilience, perseverance and confidence, and to plan for long-term goals.
“Pupils are given opportunities to discuss and debate their ideas. They learn to listen to each other and to respect opinions that are different to their own.”
Yet two areas were highlighted as it was graded as ‘requires improvement,’ namely: “The school does not have a suitably qualified fire marshal or first aider.
“Moreover, there is no suitable outdoor space for pupils to play or participate in PE lessons.”