A dedicated pupil referral unit and alternative provision in Shiremoor has received Ofsted’s highest rating, outstanding, in all areas.
Moorbridge prides itself on supporting all pupils to achieve their full potential and it’s clear they’ve achieved just that.
The glowing report celebrates the achievements of school leaders, staff, pupils and the school community in creating a safe and caring environment that makes a ‘difference in pupils’ lives’.
Moorbridge offers a tailored education for children who may have struggled in other schools or had challenging experiences that made attending school and achieving their ambitions harder. The provision has been developed in partnership over a number years with all the Secondary High and Middle schools in North Tyneside.
At Moorbridge, inspectors noted that the school is a ‘place of sanctuary where pupils can be themselves, learn and be happy. This means their behaviour is ‘exemplary’ and they leave key stage 4 with the ‘necessary qualifications for the next phase of their lives’.
Credit is paid to the staff at the school who have ‘high expectations for pupils to do, and be, their very best’ which drives pupils to ‘work hard, respect staff and be determined to succeed’.
For those who’ve struggled with school, a calm atmosphere is needed and the school delivers just that. ‘Classrooms are peaceful and pupils learn without disruption’ the report commented.
Beyond its already ‘ambitious curriculum', the school offers an exceptional personal development programme. For example, pupils learn to swim and cycle with specialist instruction and take part in new sports and hobbies.
They’re prepared for independence too, with lessons on staying safe online and the importance of healthy relationships.
To help reduce pupil suspensions and increase pupil engagement whilst developing relationships with staff, Moorbridge introduced an extended day through a ‘night school’ which provides pupils with access to additional academic and pastoral support.
The inspection took place in September 2024, and headteacher Karen Croskery is now reflecting on the fantastic outcome:
“I am honoured to be the Headteacher of such an incredible school with extraordinary staff and pupils. Seeing the pupils thrive in the time they are with us, be it for a number of weeks, months or years, is a testament to the energy and enthusiasm that each and every staff member puts in for all pupils. Additionally, it is a testament to the trust the pupils put in the staff, when often they have had negative or traumatic experiences of school.
“Moorbridge is a place where our pupils are nurtured, encouraged and empowered to be the best versions of themselves. Our dedicated team work tirelessly to create a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment where each child's unique talents and needs are recognised and celebrated.
“I am immensely proud of the progress our pupils make, both academically and personally, during their time with us. Their resilience, creativity and kindness never fail to inspire me, and I am privileged to witness their growth and transformation on a daily basis.”
Cllr Steven Phillips, Cabinet Member for Inclusion, Employment and Skills at North Tyneside Council said: “Every child deserves the best possible education, and this report highlights everything we already knew about the fantastic education pupils receive at Moorbridge.
“I’d like to congratulate everyone involved for this brilliant achievement. It’s a true reflection of the outstanding, tailored approach of the school.”