Carnforth High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 April 2026

Pupils and staff work together to create a welcoming and polite culture at this school. It is common to hear pupils share stories and well-wishes with staff as they arrive at school in the morning. Pupils are happy to be part of this caring community. They know that staff will deal with any concerns quickly and effectively. Pupils are friendly and respectful of each other. They support one another and make close friendships. They find school a safe place. Some pupils’ attendance is too low. Even so, pupils are taught about the importance of regular attendance and supported to improve their attendance through rewards or specific interventions. As a result, pupils’ attendance rates are improving. In lessons, pupils’ behaviour is positive. Classrooms are calm. Almost all are purposeful. Pupils with barriers to their learning receive well-designed support to help reduce these barriers. However, there are some inconsistencies in how well the curriculum is delivered. At times, teachers design activities that do not link to the ambitious aims of the curriculum. Additionally, some learning is not adapted effectively enough to support some pupils with barriers to learning. As a result, while pupils typically make progress in line with national averages, some pupils do not attain as well as they could. Pupils are encouraged to make the most of the opportunities that the school provides. This includes activities such as dance and LEGO club as well as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Pupils can pursue their interests by attending the medical society or practising foreign languages together. These opportunities support the academic and personal development of pupils, with some finding new hobbies through this offer.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teachers consistently use assessment information to adapt their teaching so that gaps in pupils' knowledge are closed effectively.
• Leaders should ensure that teachers set suitably ambitious tasks, so that pupils develop a deeper knowledge of the curriculum and achieve what they are capable of.
• Leaders should continue their work to improve pupils' attendance so that attendance rates rise consistently.
• Leaders and those responsible for governance should closely monitor the impact of the actions taken to improve aspects of the school. This is to ensure that there is consistent improvement over time.

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