Baines School

Overview

The report describes a school where leaders have driven "clear improvements" since the previous inspection, resulting in an environment where pupils "feel that they belong and can learn well." Standards across achievement, attendance, and behaviour are now at the "expected standard," with pupils achieving in line with national averages and demonstrating positive attitudes towards their education.

Strengths

• Pupils’ achievement has improved, with outcomes now "in line with national averages" and more moving on to "positive post‑16 destinations."
• Attendance is "above national averages," supported by systems that "follow up quickly" on absences and provide targeted mental health support.
• The school maintains a "calm and respectful atmosphere," with staff applying consequences "fairly and consistently" and responding swiftly to bullying concerns.
• The "RESPECT" personal development programme is praised for helping pupils discuss sensitive issues with "maturity and confidence" and develop skills for life beyond school.
• Staff benefit from professional development that matches school priorities, with early career teachers noting support that helps them "develop their skills and confidence."

Areas to improve

• Leaders must ensure improvements in teaching pedagogy and assessment are "consistently embedded across the curriculum" so all pupils achieve well.
• Staff should use information about pupils’ vulnerabilities to "swiftly remove any barriers to learning," including closing gaps in basic knowledge.
• Processes for identifying key stage 4 pupils who "find reading difficult" need further enhancement to ensure they receive effective support.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an "open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" and concerns are actively identified and managed.