Methodist College

Overview

This sustaining improvement inspection was conducted during industrial action, meaning teachers did not cooperate with the process. Consequently, the ETI could not evaluate classroom teaching or fully assess safeguarding practices, stating it is “unable to assure parents/carers... of the quality of education being provided.” The report relies on evidence from senior leadership, documentation, and pupil feedback rather than direct observation of lessons.

Strengths

• The school development plan is “comprehensive and progressive,” informed by research and stakeholder consultation, with a “clear, strategic and challenging vision.”
• Pupils have attained “consistently high standards in public examinations at both GCSE and A level” over the past three years.
• A recent review ensures special educational needs provision is “tailored to meet the needs of all of the pupils.”
• Teacher professional learning is well-structured, and the “creative and discerning use of ICT has enhanced planning for learning.”
• Pupils report a “welcoming ethos,” strong relationships with staff, and value the “wide range of opportunities” to develop their talents.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no specific areas for improvement, as the inspection focused on the school’s capacity for self-evaluation and development planning rather than prescribing changes.

Safeguarding

The school provided evidence that safeguarding arrangements “reflect broadly the guidance issued by the Department of Education,” and pupils reported they feel safe and know how to raise concerns, though the ETI could not fully evaluate the outworking of these arrangements due to the industrial action.