St Paul's Way Trust School

Overview

Pupils at this school are described as “kind, caring and respectful,” enjoying their studies and demonstrating “excellent behaviour.” Leaders maintain an “ambitious vision” for the curriculum, ensuring pupils are well prepared for their next steps in learning, with particular strength in the early years and sixth form. The school fosters a “calm and purposeful” environment where staff support pupils effectively, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

Strengths

• The curriculum is “well designed and ambitious,” with subject leaders collaborating to ensure pupils build knowledge “step by step over time.”
• Behaviour is outstanding; pupils “rise to this challenge successfully” and bullying is “rare,” with staff acting “quickly to resolve any problems.”
• Early years provision is strong, with “no time wasted” in teaching essential knowledge like reading, ensuring readiness for Year 1.
• Sixth-form students develop “deep knowledge” and engage in “high-quality discussions,” preparing them for “aspirational destinations.”
• Leaders provide a “wide range of opportunities” for personal development, including extra-curricular activities and high-quality careers information.

Areas to improve

• In Years 1 to 11, checks on pupils’ understanding are “less consistent” than in other phases; some teachers do not verify if pupils have mastered the knowledge needed to progress.
• Leaders should ensure subject leaders identify and address gaps in knowledge, as difficulties are sometimes not picked up, affecting progress through the curriculum.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are “effective,” with staff receiving regular training and working closely with outside agencies to support vulnerable pupils.