Centre for 'problem pupils' is praised

TdaNews Direct
Published: 29 October, 2007

An educational unit that deals with "problem pupils" has been praised in a recent Ofsted report.

The Burnley and Pendle Centre (BPC) in Lancashire deals with the worst-case problem students in the region and many have been expelled from their previous schools when they arrive at the unit.

Youngsters are offered another chance to prepare to sit their final exams and properly refocus on their studies at the centre, which has only been running in its present capacity for two years.

Ofsted inspectors said that the pupil referral unit, which caters for 72 students, makes a "significant difference to the life chances of students" at a late stage in their school career.

The report said: "Many [students here] are angry about their previous experiences and enter the school with little hope for the future. [However] they make significant progress in their attendance, behaviour and attainment. Many feel pride in achievement at school for the first time."

Teaching at the unit was also praised: "The centre succeeds because staff refuse to give up on students. The inspirational leadership of the headteacher has given staff the right tools and attitude to meet the very demanding needs of students."

Half of students that leave the BPC progress onto college courses and a quarter gain apprenticeships, continue into further training or get jobs.