Bramley Hill School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 12 March 2024

Pupils thrive at this inclusive and welcoming place. They usually arrive at Bramley Hill School after prolonged periods of disrupted schooling. Kind and caring staff have high expectations. They take time to get to know each pupil well. As a result, pupils feel valued and happy. They achieve well from their starting points. As pupils move through the school, their independence and resilience strengthen. Pupils take their responsibilities seriously. For example, they relish managing the tuck shop and volunteering at the local farm and the nearby pet grooming shop. Pupils are proud and thoughtful citizens. They host events to share their culinary talents with local residents and collect donations for the food bank. The eco- champions regularly organise litter picks to keep the neighbourhood tidy. Pupils are also preparing excitedly for the upcoming school talent show. However, a significant minority of pupils do not attend school regularly and miss out on the rich range of supportive opportunities on offer. Pupils feel safe in school and are well supported. They know who they can talk to if they have any concerns. Pupils say that there is some bullying and use of derogatory language. However, they trust that staff deal with any issues quickly.

What the school should improve

• Staff subject knowledge is variable in some of the foundation subjects. As a result, pupils do not always learn as well as they could from their individual starting points. The school should ensure that all staff are well trained and have the depth of subject knowledge required to deliver the curriculum effectively.
• A significant minority of pupils are persistently absent from school. These pupils miss valuable learning and wider school experiences. The school should continue determinedly with its work to raise pupils' attendance.

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