BRECON HIGH SCHOOL

Overview

The report describes a school with an "inclusive and caring ethos" that supports personal development well, where most pupils feel safe. However, "weaknesses in leadership and governance" have led to insufficient improvement in teaching quality, attendance, and academic standards, resulting in judgements of "Unsatisfactory and needs urgent improvement" for teaching and leadership.

Strengths

• The school fosters an "inclusive and caring ethos" with positive working relationships between teachers and pupils.
• Pupils benefit from a "comprehensive personal and social education programme" and strong extra-curricular provision in sport, music, and drama.
• Effective support is provided for pupils with additional learning needs and English as an additional language, including specialist assistance.
• Sixth form pupils act as "good role models," and the school offers a broad range of options in collaboration with local colleges.

Areas to improve

• Improve the quality of teaching, particularly by challenging more able pupils and ensuring consistent, precise written feedback.
• Address the "narrow range of options" at key stage 4 and develop a "coherent and co-ordinated approach" to skills development.
• Implement robust financial management to address the large budget deficit and improve pupil attendance.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding procedures "generally meet requirements and there are no significant areas for concern," although one health and safety issue was raised.