Thirsk School & Sixth Form College

Overview

The report describes a school where leaders and governors provide clear direction, creating a supportive environment where staff feel valued and pupils are able to succeed. Pupils are characterised as confident, polite, and eager to learn, with behaviour that is generally calm and conducive to education. The school is fulfilling the expected standard of education and care across all inspected areas.

Strengths

• Pupils generally achieve well, with national exam results showing positive progress and many continuing to education or employment.
• Staff instil high aspirations and care, fostering a culture where pupils feel safe, respected, and supported by strong adult relationships.
• Leaders effectively support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they access the same curriculum as their peers.
• Personal development is strong, with pupils engaging in clubs, charity work, and careers guidance that prepares them for future steps.
• Governors work closely with leaders, offering support and challenge to ensure priorities linked to the school’s vision are met.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should ensure a consistent approach to curriculum and teaching so that pupils gain detailed knowledge across all subjects.
• Teachers should effectively use assessment information to identify and address gaps in pupils’ key knowledge.
• Leaders should continue to build on recent attendance improvements to ensure all pupils attend school regularly.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an open culture where concerns are actively identified, acted upon, and managed to keep pupils safe.