International School
Programme

In March 2024, we hosted our partner school, Victor Drury from Paris, for the week. Throughout the academic year, we exchanged video calls, Christmas cards, and some work asking each other questions about our lives.

We were very excited for this visit, with a focus on the Paralympics and the Special Olympics due to Paris hosting the Olympics this summer.

First Day
The students arrived very excited for the day ahead. We first had a talk about our school and then had a tour of the site. They spent time in the Blue Ceramics clay session, a business run within the school by the 6th form students. Our partners joined in and made a ceramic toadstool.

We then went to a KS4 class and helped make pizza bases for our lunch. We each made our own pizzas and had some time for fun games over lunch.

In the afternoon, we walked to our primary site, had a tour, and spent time in a KS1 class. Upon returning to our secondary school site, we had a sign language lesson, learning the alphabet, how to introduce ourselves, and some sentences.

Second Day
The morning was spent learning the rules of wheelchair basketball and playing it, which was enjoyable and competitive. This was followed by a Boccia tournament, where we taught the rules and played against each other. For lunch, we showcased our onsite 6th form-run restaurant, serving traditional bangers and mash and chocolate concrete with pink custard. The feedback was positive, especially about the Yorkshire pudding.

After lunch, we played basketball before the afternoon session of orienteering with a KS3 class, splitting into teams and searching for needed items. In the evening, we had a social night, including bowling and a traditional English meal of fish and chips.

Third Day
The morning started with a circle time with a PMLD class, followed by a water polo game in the hydrotherapy pool, which was fun and competitive. We then watched sensory learners participate in their special Olympics.

In the afternoon, we toured the old town of York with a company, learning about its history and seeing many historic sites.

Final Day
On the last morning, mini cafes were set up for different class groups to say goodbye to the French students. They enjoyed cake and hot chocolate, exchanged gifts, received Eiffel Tower keyrings, and gave Hull chip spice in return.

Throughout the week, the students interacted with various age groups and abilities, gaining a better understanding of special educational needs and relating learning to the Paralympics and Special Olympics. Everyone had great feedback and an enjoyable time.

‘Pupils take part in local and
regional accessible sporting activities.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils rise to the challenges that you set, and their learning is rarely disrupted.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils run the school shop and staff cafeteria, enabling them to use their literacy and numeracy skills in a practical setting.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Staff use signing, symbols, photographs and objects of reference to communicate effectively with those pupils who need additional support to ensure that they are fully engaged in their learning.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Leaders have introduced a new approach to assessment. This enables leaders to check pupils’ progress from their starting points more effectively.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, are making strong progress from their varied starting points in reading, writing and mathematics.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Leaders have carried out a detailed review of the curriculum pathways for pupils.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Leaders use the pupil premium funding effectively.’…

OFSTED comments

‘The curriculum offers a wealth of enrichment activities which are highly valued by
pupils and parents and carers.’…

OFSTED comments

‘The school council is
especially active and members are particularly proud of the role they played in improving school meals..’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils say that they enjoy their lessons and take great pride in their work.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Leaders have continued to develop the school’s curriculum since the last inspection.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils take part in a strong work experience and work-related learning programme.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupil Premium is targeted to improving pupils’ communication skills through investment in specialist equipment and software.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils respect each other, display good manners and work together successfully.’…

OFSTED comments

‘There is a strong emphasis on personalisation of the curriculum, the development of pupils’ communication skills, independence skills and preparation for life after school.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Pupils spoke
enthusiastically about learning outside of school and their visits to local museums, the Humber Bridge, local cafes and to the cinema.’…

OFSTED comments

‘Based on the evidence gathered during this short inspection, I am of the opinion that the school continues to go from strength to strength.’…

OFSTED comments