Queen Elizabeth High School

Overview

The report describes a school where “pupils and staff embrace the headteacher’s clearly communicated vision” of respect, relationships, and responsibility. The headteacher has prioritised well-being, resulting in a community that “works well together to realise their shared ambitions.” A notable strength is the inclusive practice in the Canolfan Elfed centre, where nearly all pupils “flourish and make strong progress.”

Strengths

• The Canolfan Elfed inclusion centre provides a “highly inclusive and nurturing environment” where pupils with diverse needs make strong progress.
• Pupils generally feel “safe and secure,” with most believing the school deals well with bullying and treats everyone fairly.
• Many pupils, including those with additional learning needs, make “secure progress” and apply prior knowledge successfully in lessons.
• The school offers a “comprehensive range of courses” and works effectively with outside agencies to support vulnerable pupils.
• Sixth form pupils display “positive and mature attitudes,” showing independence and pride in their work.

Areas to improve

• Improve teaching so that it makes a “consistent impact on pupils’ learning,” as planning and feedback are sometimes insufficiently precise.
• Ensure leadership responsibilities are “clearly defined and equitably distributed” following recent role reorganisations.
• Strengthen provision to reduce persistent absence, particularly for pupils eligible for free school meals.

Safeguarding

The report states that “most pupils feel safe and secure in school” and that the school “deals well with bullying when it occurs,” with nearly all pupils knowing where to access support.