The William Henry Smith School and Sixth Form

Overview

The report describes the school as a "calm, tranquil place" where pupils benefit from an array of experiences designed to "enrich and nurture their understanding of the world." It highlights that "teamwork is the underpinning principle" of life at the school, with staff working closely to support pupils’ academic, social, and emotional development. The inspection found that leaders’ work to understand and support pupils is "exceptional," resulting in strong relationships and high aspirations.

Strengths

• "Behaviour is excellent" and relationships between teachers and pupils are "incredibly strong."
• A collaborative approach ensures a curriculum that "develops pupils in all aspects of their lives," including tailored phonics and speech therapy.
• "Careers provision and advice are exceptional," with well-planned work experience and support for sixth-form college courses.
• Staff receive regular training and participate in social activities, fostering an "open, questioning culture" that drives continuous improvement.
• The environment is designed to ensure pupils can learn in surroundings "suited to their needs," including a recently established communication and interaction unit.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.