Winchcombe School

Overview

The report describes a school where leaders have acted swiftly to improve the curriculum and teaching, resulting in pupils being "increasingly better prepared for their next stage of education." Inspectors found that pupils are "very proud of their school" and feel safe due to positive relationships with staff and clear behavioural expectations. The school is fulfilling the expected standard of education, with particular praise for its inclusive approach and personal development programme.

Strengths

• The curriculum is "broad and ambitious," with topics carefully sequenced to build on prior learning and prepare pupils well for qualifications.
• Staff provide "swift and effective support" for foundational skills, including bespoke reading interventions, helping pupils with barriers to learning make positive progress.
• Behaviour is high quality; lessons are "calm," bullying is "rare," and pupils are "polite and respectful," leading to a significant reduction in suspensions.
• The careers programme is a "strength," offering work experiences and mock interviews that help pupils progress to education or training aligned with their aspirations.
• Leaders foster a supportive culture where staff have "great faith in the leadership" and are proud to work there, while parents praise the "caring approach of staff."

Areas to improve

• Leaders should ensure staff consistently use assessment information to identify and close gaps in pupils’ knowledge and understanding.
• Leaders should continue to embed attendance support strategies so that attendance continues to rise for all pupils, as some still miss too much time.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with an "open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" ensuring pupils are made safer and feel safe.