Cullybackey College

Overview

Cullybackey College is described as having a “well-embedded culture of care, support and acceptance” that enables pupils to thrive. The report highlights a “pupil-centred ethos” where success is defined broadly, including kindness and wellbeing, alongside academic progress. While the school fosters strong community links and positive attitudes, it faces challenges regarding consistency in teaching quality and curriculum timetabling.

Strengths

• A “well-embedded culture of care, support and acceptance” where pupils’ unique starting points are recognised.
• Pupils display “positive attitudes to their learning” and maintain “mutually respectful relationships” with staff.
• Effective early identification of special educational needs, with “good account” taken of pastoral information for support planning.
• Successful initiatives have led to attendance improving “significantly”.
• Strong engagement with the local community, including churches and businesses, enriching pupils’ development.

Areas to improve

• Improve consistency in the quality of lessons by re-engaging in observation of learning and teaching to share effective practice.
• Review the curriculum and associated timetabling to ensure continuity in learning, addressing issues where isolated periods hinder practical work.
• Ensure action plans specify clearly how progress will be measured accurately.

Safeguarding

The report states that “arrangements for child and adult protection align to the current statutory guidance.”