Dr Thomlinson Church of England Middle School

Overview

Dr Thomlinson Church of England Middle School continues to be a good school, characterised by a culture where pupils are “friendly, confident and immensely proud.” The report highlights that “relationships between pupils and teachers are respectful and caring,” creating an environment where students feel safe and engaged in their learning.

Strengths

• The curriculum is described as “ambitious and interesting,” with plans that are “well sequenced” to ensure important knowledge develops securely over time.
• Leaders actively promote a love of reading, ensuring all pupils read daily from a “wide range of high-quality texts” matched to their ability.
• Teachers effectively revisit previous learning and use “effective questioning” to assess understanding and address any knowledge gaps.
• Pupils benefit from a “wealth of clubs” and enhanced curriculum opportunities, including local trips and visits that enrich their education.
• Staff provide targeted support for early readers, helping them gain confidence through small-group phonics lessons.

Areas to improve

• Teachers do not consistently use bespoke learning plans for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), meaning some do not receive appropriate curriculum modifications.
• Leaders must ensure staff are confident in using these individual plans to make necessary adaptations, ensuring the curriculum is fully accessible to all pupils.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, supported by a “strong culture of care and vigilance” where leaders act quickly to support vulnerable pupils and maintain careful records.