The Observatory School admits boys and girls with behavioural, emotional and social difficulties (BESD). A large majority experience additional learning difficulties such as autistic spectrum conditions and attention disorders. Students join the school at any age between 11 and 16 and all have a statement of special educational needs. Students come from all areas of The Wirral to attend and some travel long distances. The catchment area has some of the highest levels of deprivation in England. All but a very few students are known to be entitled to the pupil premium and this is extremely high compared to most other schools. There are more boys than girls and the ethnic backgrounds of the students are broadly representative of the local area. There are no formal partnerships but some occasional arrangements are made with other schools to support students. The Merseyside-based provider of alternative education known as Cornerstones is used by the school at its Birkenhead location. A few students attend here either full time or part time to study skills of the construction industry. Work experience is arranged for students as appropriate. None was occurring at the time of the inspection. Since the last inspection the school has experienced a period of great change in leadership and management. The previous headteacher resigned in May 2011. The then deputy headteacher was appointed as acting headteacher from November 2010 until April 2012, when they were then appointed as substantive headteacher. An acting assistant headteacher has been appointed as deputy headteacher and other changes have been made in the middle management of the school. In June 2011, the school received a visit from one of Her Majesty’s Inspectors to find out about the quality of science teaching and learning in the school.