However, a reinspection by the education watchdog Ofsted found that improvements made by the service means it now actually meets the targets.
The March 2025 inspection found the service did not provide adequate career guidance for kids, did not meet the statutory requirements for its relationships and sex education curriculum, did not meet the standard for spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, and had some issues with how the centre was managed.
Inspectors found that ‘the school has introduced a clear careers policy and programme, addressing previous concerns about pupils not receiving sufficient careers guidance.’
Pupils now receive impartial careers advice, access to work experience opportunities, and personalised development plans focused on employment, relationships and independent living.
A classroom is now dedicated to teaching practical skills like hospitality and housekeeping.
Inspectors found the Anchor Sendfriendly Centre had also created a relationships and sex education programme that meets the statutory requirements.
They said the programme covers topics such as consent, personal boundaries, and puberty.
They said parents were consulted and informed about the content and given the right to withdraw children from the sex education element.
Staff received necessary training and the policy is publicly available on the school’s website, bringing the centre in line with the previously unmet standards in this area.
The centre was able to demonstrate improvement in the provision of spiritual, moral, social and cultural education.
Inspectors found that ‘the school now provides appropriate coverage of protected characteristics through its PSHE curriculum and assemblies.’
Curriculum sequencing was found to be organised, staff were well-trained, and pupils’ work evidenced the successful teaching of the intended content.
Leadership and management of the school have seen significant enhancements.
The school leaders and the proprietor have effectively addressed the ‘failures identified in the March 2025 inspection.’
Efforts to review policies, curriculum and other provisions in line with government guidance were found to have been successful.
The introduction of ‘structured action plans with clear accountability,’ efficient staff responsibility alignment with school standards, and leadership that ensures the sustained meeting of standards were acknowledged by the inspectors.
However, they were satisfied that these issues had now been rectified.
The education watchdog said the school complies with the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 for the areas that were checked during this visit.
