Yew Tree Farm School

This was a material change inspection of Yew Tree Farm School, an independent special school for pupils with autism spectrum conditions and social, emotional and mental health needs. The school, which currently caters for 10 primary-age pupils and is run by the proprietor who is also the headteacher, has applied to increase its age range to 7 to 16 and its maximum number of pupils to 24. Inspectors found that the school is likely to meet the independent school standards if these changes are implemented, with effective leadership, a well-planned curriculum for secondary-age pupils that builds on the primary offer, and robust safeguarding, health and safety, and site arrangements that have been carefully adapted to accommodate more pupils and mixed age groups. Leaders have made significant improvements to the site, including three additional classrooms and break-out spaces, and have appropriate risk assessments for the proposed changes. The school's recruitment processes, single central record, and premises are all compliant. Pupils are happy, feel safe, and benefit from high staff ratios and tailored support. The curriculum is well designed to meet pupils' SEND, with one-to-one English and mathematics lessons and small-group teaching for wider subjects, and there are appropriate plans for careers advice, PSHE, and extra-curricular activities. No areas of concern were identified in this inspection. The school's policies and practices are well aligned with statutory requirements, and leaders demonstrate a secure understanding of the independent school standards. The inspection outcome indicates that the school is well positioned to make the proposed material changes successfully.

Strengths

• Effective leadership with relevant expertise and strong professional networks
• Pupils are happy, feel safe, and develop positive relationships rapidly
• High staff ratios and tailored support for pupils' individual needs
• Well-planned curriculum for secondary-age pupils that builds on primary foundations
• Staff are well trained to deliver the curriculum and adapt lessons for SEND
• Careful monitoring of pupil progress against individual targets and EHCPs
• Strong emphasis on spiritual, moral, social and cultural development
• Robust safeguarding arrangements with regular training and appropriate policies
• Thorough risk assessments for site-based and off-site activities
• Safe and well-maintained premises with appropriate facilities
• Robust recruitment processes and accurate single central record
• Careful planning for increased pupil numbers and mixed age groups
• Appropriate health and safety, fire safety, and first aid systems
• Good communication with external agencies for timely support

• Primary Schools
• Secondary Schools

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What is Yew Tree Farm School's Ofsted rating?

The latest Ofsted rating for Yew Tree Farm School is Good, from an inspection in August 2026.

When was Yew Tree Farm School last inspected by Ofsted?

Yew Tree Farm School was last inspected in August 2026.

How many pupils does Yew Tree Farm School have?

Yew Tree Farm School has 6 pupils on roll.

What age range does Yew Tree Farm School cover?

Yew Tree Farm School for pupils aged 7 to 16.

Where is Yew Tree Farm School?

Yew Tree Farm School is at Swanton Street, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME9 8AT.