How acclaimed Nottingham special school went extra mile for pupils on prom night

Video: End of term with a difference at Oak Field School

Prom season is upon us again – and each year Nottingham schools and parents seem to go that little bit further to make lasting memories.

And this year one of the city’s most acclaimed schools was determined to make sure all its pupils, some of whom have severe learning difficulties, don’t miss out on the best fun at the end of term.

Oak Field School and Sports College, Bilborough, laid on a 007-themed Bond event and gave pupils the chance to try out some classic and high performance sports cars for size.

Friends of the school and local businesses helped organise the cars for Monday night’s event, which put smiles on the faces of pupils and staff.

There was also live music from a brass band and a decorated ball room to host food, drink and entertainment.

Head teacher David Stewart said: “We decided to have some flash cars here as it’s a James Bond evening. We really wanted to make it a very special event for the young people.

“Everyone’s dressed up and when we say goodbye to our leavers – some of whom may have been here for many years – it’s a very special occasion for them and their families. We wanted a great evening of celebration and entertainment.”

All of the school’s students have special educational needs and almost all have learning and physical disabilities.

Student Kemarie Wedderburn, 19, said: “It’s made me feel great actually – thank you to the school for doing this for us.”

The school’s specialist services mean it often teaches pupils for many years – some have been at the school for 16 years before leaving – although it has only been known as Oak
Field after a £19 million project seven years ago to replace Shepherd and Aspley Wood special schools.

Mum Nicola Rose, whose daughter Harley, 19, is leaving school said: “It’s been absolutely brilliant it’s her last day on Tuesday and it’s quite emotional for all of the parents who have come tonight – where have 19 years gone?”

Inspectors at Ofsted have previously given the school a perfect score – rating it as ‘outstanding’ in all four of its main assessment categories.

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