Bilbrook CofE (VC) Middle School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 27 June 2023

Leaders have high aspirations for pupils' learning and for their personal development. They understand the barriers that pupils may face. Therefore, pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are able to gain an education that prepares them extremely well for high school. Pupils enjoy coming to school. Their behaviour is exemplary. They have positive attitudes and are courteous. The school supports any pupil who does not behave according to expectations. This helps them to learn from their mistakes and make better choices. Leaders tackle bullying quickly and effectively on the rare occasion that it happens. Pupils say they feel safe. The school's vision of letting 'your light shine' permeates everywhere. Pupils can choose from a wide variety of extra-curricular activities in sport and the arts. Leaders also consult with the pupils' learning council about how they learn. The learning council informs, and is central to, the shaping of developments in teaching and learning. This helps pupils to have a better understanding of how they learn.

What the school should improve

• Leaders acknowledge that the curriculum is not sufficiently well planned and sequenced in geography and history. This means that pupils are not able to deepen their knowledge well enough and make links to prior learning. Leaders need to ensure that newly appointed subject leaders are afforded the same opportunities as existing staff.

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