A Very Warm
Welcome
We pride ourselves on our educational philosophy knowing that whatever we do it is always children first. At West Oaks School we aim to achieve the best outcomes for our children and young people.
Our children, young people and school community are always our priority and are at the core of everything we do. We embrace the view that all people are different and require access to an educational process that reflects these differences.
Our Story
Watch
Our Location
Find us
West Oaks School is split across 3 locations in and around the city of Leeds. We can be found in Boston Spa, Headingley and Woodhouse.
Our Stories
Socials
β¨Our Footsteps Curriculum β¨
Our Footsteps pathway supports learners across Key Stages 2-5 who are working within early developmental levels. Every step is personalised, meaningful and focused on maximising engagement and personal progress. π
Our curriculum is built around four key areas:
π£οΈ Communication & Interaction
Developing independence and communication skills - helping pupils understand information, express their needs, and connect with others.
π§ Cognition & Learning
Encouraging pupils to respond to stimuli, anticipate, explore and persist. We build early problemβsolving and criticalβthinking skills so pupils can better understand the world around them.
πSensory & Physical
Exploring through the senses, developing motor skills, balance and body awareness. Pupils learn to organise their movements, explore their environment safely, and communicate their preferences - with support to coβregulate or selfβregulate using sensory strategies.
π Social, Emotional & Mental Health
Supporting emotional understanding, cultural and religious experiences, and behaviour regulation. Pupils learn about themselves, build confidence, and take an active part in their school, home and wider community.
Every learner takes their own unique steps - and we celebrate each one. ππ£
β¨Our Foundations Curriculumβ¨
Designed for children aged 2β7, our playβbased curriculum follows each childβs interests to spark curiosity, confidence and joy in learning.
Rooted in Development Matters (2023), our topics change through the year to keep learning exciting and meaningful. We focus on the prime areas of development, helping every child make small, successful steps forward.
At the heart of our approach are the Characteristics of Effective Learning:
πPlaying & Exploring β trying new things
π«Active Learning β sticking with challenges
π Thinking Creatively & Critically β developing ideas & strategies
Our Religious Education gently weaves in:
π€ Kindness, friendships & positive relationships
π Celebrating cultural diversity
π‘ Opportunities to share home and faith experiences
Every day, weβre building strong, happy foundations for lifelong learning. π±π
It has been wonderful to welcome our new families to coffee mornings across our West Oaks sites this week. βοΈπ
These sessions have provided an opportunity for parents and carers to meet members of the school community, make connections and find out more about life at West Oaks as their journey with us begins. π
Thank you to everyone who attended. We are excited to get to know you and work together to support your children. π
Weβre delighted to share that our Ofsted report has now been published! π
The report celebrates what makes West Oaks so special: our fantastic pupils, the dedication of our staff and our wonderfully supportive school community. We are incredibly proud of everyone who contributes to creating a school where children feel safe, valued and able to achieve their very best. πβ¨
Read the full report on our website.
πWelcome back, West Oaks!π
We are ready for another incredible year of learning, discovering, achieving and shining together. Let the adventure begin! π