Beechen Cliff School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 21 September 2023

Respect is central to the school's ethos. Pupils sign up to the 'Beechen Cliff Charter' which sets out the importance of equality and diversity. The school aims to give everyone the same opportunities and rights. Students in the sixth form are treated with respect as young adults. They are encouraged to develop into the best versions of themselves. Pupils behave well, both around the school and in the classroom. They know that staff expect them to uphold the school's values. The school recognises the value of talk and the importance of developing pupils' emotional literacy. Pupils are taught how to be a good friend when their peers need them. The curriculum is designed so that mental health themes are revisited regularly. All of this has led to a culture where pupils are confident to speak about their worries and know they will be supported. Beechen Cliff has a proud tradition of offering a wide range of extra-curricular activities. Pupils participate well in an array of clubs, from beekeeping to the Combined Cadet Force. The school works closely with the local rugby team to develop promising players, for example. Many pupils get involved in challenges and volunteering, such as through the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

What the school should improve

• Some pupils with additional needs find it hard to learn the curriculum because their prior knowledge is not secure, or because information is not presented to them in a way that they understand. The trust should ensure that teaching considers different starting points, so that all pupils are supported to learn the most important curriculum content successfully.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)