Brentwood County High School

Overview

The report describes a school where “belonging is a defining feature” and leaders demonstrate a “clear and accurate understanding” of strengths and priorities. While most aspects of provision are judged to meet the “expected standard,” the school’s approach to inclusion is highlighted as a “notable strength” operating at a “strong standard.”

Strengths

• Inclusion is a “notable strength,” underpinned by “strong leadership” and “precise, diagnostic assessment” that accurately identifies pupil needs.
• Safeguarding standards are met, with an “open culture” where concerns are “actively identified, acted upon and managed.”
• Pupil premium funding is used “highly effectively” to provide mentoring and support, narrowing achievement gaps for disadvantaged pupils.
• Behaviour is “calm and orderly,” fostered by “warm relationships” and consistent routines, with bullying and intolerance being rare.
• The sixth form offers “significant strengths” in pastoral support and careers guidance, with students described as “thriving.”

Areas to improve

• Leaders should ensure pupils develop writing skills, including handwriting, so they can “convey their observations, thinking and ideas with clarity and purpose.”
• Good practice in teaching and assessment should be “consistently embedded across all classrooms” to strengthen the curriculum.
• All aspects of the personal development programme should be “carefully tailored to the needs of pupils.”

Safeguarding

The report confirms that safeguarding standards are met, noting that leaders have established an “open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility” and that “pupils are made safer and feel safe.”