Dromore High School

Overview

Dromore High School is described as an “inspirational and empowering community of lifelong learners” with a “strong Christian ethos” that unites the school community. The inspection found that pupils have access to a “well-planned and responsive curriculum” and that teaching was “mostly effective,” fostering engagement and deeper thinking. The report highlights a positive culture where staff support pupils proactively, though it notes that self-evaluation processes require further development to fully reflect classroom evidence.

Strengths

• The school’s renewed vision has created a “clear, shared foundation” within its strong Christian ethos.
• Pupils benefit from a “well-planned and responsive curriculum” that enables them to progress and achieve across all key stages.
• The “progressive preventative curriculum” is effective in preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom, with high priority given to emotional health and well-being.
• Staff work “proactively, flexibly and sensitively” to support pupils experiencing barriers to learning, including those with special educational needs.
• A “strong culture of celebration” is embedded in school life, recognising academic, creative and personal achievements to promote motivation and belonging.

Areas to improve

• Develop self-evaluation processes by drawing on “first-hand evidence of pupils’ learning” to ensure this evidence meaningfully informs action planning.
• Ensure target-setting is informed by “classroom-based evidence” as well as assessment data to address variations in performance.
• Audit and evaluate better the pupils’ learning experiences within the preventative curriculum across all subject areas.

Safeguarding

The report states that “arrangements for child and adult protection align to the current statutory guidance” and that almost all pupils feel safe and know who to approach with concerns.