Rathmore Grammar School

Overview

The inspection was conducted during industrial action, meaning only senior leadership cooperated with inspectors. Consequently, the ETI states it is “unable to assure the quality of education” and could not fully evaluate teaching, learning, or leadership effectiveness. Despite these limitations, the report highlights strong historical examination results and positive pupil feedback regarding wellbeing and support.

Strengths

• Pupils are described as “highly confident, articulate and well-rounded” who demonstrate “high levels of courtesy and respect.”
• Examination outcomes at Key Stage 4 and post-16 have been at a “consistently high standard,” with most pupils achieving seven or more GCSEs at grades A* to B.
• The curriculum is “broad and balanced,” with enrichment and leadership opportunities developed well across key stages.
• Pupils appreciate the “high level of individual care and support” provided through the pastoral system and feel enabled to contribute to school life.
• Governors are “highly committed” and well-informed, exercising their challenge function to support high standards.

Areas to improve

• The school needs to review risk assessment arrangements for access to the school site and buildings.
• Vision panels are missing from classroom doors in the convent area of the school.
• There is no grill on the pond.

Safeguarding

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