Driffield School and Sixth Form

Overview

Driffield School and Sixth Form has “taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection.” The report describes an “inclusive school” where pupils are encouraged to “Be Here, Be Yourself and Be Your Best,” fostering an atmosphere where students “achieve well” and feel valued. Leaders are committed to providing clear pathways for life beyond school, supported by an “exemplary” careers programme and strong relationships throughout the community.

Strengths

• The curriculum is “broad, balanced and ambitious,” with a “consistent approach” to identifying key knowledge and skills that are carefully sequenced for all pupils, including those with SEND.
• Teachers possess “strong knowledge” of their subjects and are “adept at identifying gaps in knowledge and misconceptions,” ensuring most pupils learn key concepts effectively.
• Behaviour is excellent; pupils are “respectful and kind,” contributing to a “calm and orderly” environment where the focus remains on learning.
• The sixth form is “proud,” with students receiving significant support for personal development, leading to “excellent destination data” and high achievement.
• Safeguarding arrangements are “effective,” and pupils are well-supported through initiatives like the APEX programme and extensive reading opportunities.

Areas to improve

• The school’s attendance strategy is “not sufficiently improving the attendance of those who are disadvantaged,” which negatively impacts their achievement.
• Leaders should place “greater emphasis on the actions to increase the attendance of those who are disadvantaged” to ensure they benefit from the high-quality education provided.

Safeguarding

The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”