Christian Brothers' Grammar School

Overview

The inspection was conducted during industrial action, meaning most teachers did not cooperate with inspectors. Consequently, the ETI states it is “unable to assure” parents of the quality of education provided. The report notes that evaluations are based only on the limited evidence made available at the time.

Strengths

• Pupils displayed “high levels of self-discipline” and a “clear sense of order and calm” throughout the school.
• Examination results in GCSE and A-level subjects were generally “in line with or above” Northern Ireland averages for similar schools.
• The principal and senior leadership team implemented a “well-conceived interim school improvement plan” and new management structures.
• Governors were “highly supportive” and proactively addressed budgetary challenges and future strategic changes.
• Parents and staff reported satisfaction with the “supportive learning environment” and “collegial working environment.”

Areas to improve

• The school must “keep under review and monitor the impact of all improvement actions” as pupils progress through key transition years.
• There is an “urgent need to review the security of the outlying technology block.”

Safeguarding

The report states that safeguarding arrangements “reflect broadly the guidance from the Department of Education,” but the ETI was “unable to evaluate fully the outworking of the arrangements” due to the industrial action.