The Chase

Overview

The Chase is described as a school where pupils are "happy and safe," benefiting from "warm relationships" and a "tangible culture of care." While pupils achieve well with results typically above national averages, progress from starting points remains at the national average. The report highlights strong leadership and inclusive practices but notes that teaching consistency and attendance for disadvantaged pupils require further development.

Strengths

• Pupils achieve well, with examination results "typically above the national averages" in subjects such as English literature, sciences, and history.
• The curriculum is "broad and ambitious," with teachers possessing "secure subject knowledge" and adapting well for pupils with special educational needs.
• Leaders foster an inclusive environment, engaging effectively with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils and those known to social care.
• Behaviour is excellent; the school is a "calm and orderly place" where pupils treat each other with respect and embody values of "aspiration, respect, resilience and adaptability."
• Sixth-form students receive "bespoke support" and are well prepared for "ambitious destinations," including top universities.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must "accelerate their strategic approaches to rapidly improve the attendance of disadvantaged pupils," as current actions have not yet had a tangible impact.
• Teachers need to develop expertise in using assessment to "check and address misconceptions" consistently, as some move pupils on too quickly without ensuring understanding.
• Adaptations to teaching and PSHE delivery should be refined to ensure they are "highly effective," particularly for pupils with barriers to learning.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an "open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" and concerns are actively identified and managed.