Netherthorpe School

Overview

The report states that pupils “do not receive an acceptable standard of education,” with GCSE results “significantly below national averages.” It highlights that the school has “not acted swiftly enough to stem the decline in educational standards,” noting that weaknesses in underachievement and behaviour have persisted or worsened, particularly for vulnerable pupils.

Strengths

• Sixth-form students feel “extremely well supported” and appreciate the “guided autonomy” they receive.
• The library is described as a “real asset” and a “special haven” for pupils.
• The personal, social, health and economic curriculum is “thoughtfully and logically sequenced.”
• The quality of careers education and guidance is identified as a “strength of the school.”
• Staff appreciate the “family feel of the school” and leaders’ consideration of their well-being.

Areas to improve

• The school must take “decisive action” to improve stability, as educational standards have declined.
• Curriculum delivery is “too variable,” with staff failing to check pupils’ understanding effectively, leaving gaps in learning.
• Expectations for behaviour are “too low,” with poor conduct often ignored and high suspension rates for disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND.
• Disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND do not receive adequate support to access the curriculum or wider opportunities.
• Reading data is not used effectively to adapt learning, preventing some pupils from accessing tasks.
• Safeguarding records are “sometimes incomplete” and lack rigour.
• The school should nurture a culture where all pupils feel their differences are “recognised or valued.”

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are “effective,” though records do not always accurately reflect actions taken to safeguard pupils’ welfare.