Charnwood College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 September 2022

Pupils at Charnwood College experience a culture of respect and positivity. Staff work hard to help pupils fulfil their potential. Leaders have established an inclusive and calm environment in which pupils can learn. Staff know pupils well and use the daily roll call to foster a sense of community and to check on well-being. Pupils know what to expect in each lesson. Leaders have adopted a lesson routine which teachers use consistently. Reading is a priority. Pupils hear their teachers read regularly, and develop their ability to read over time. Pupils feel safe and recognise that teachers are available to support them. Pupils are not worried about bullying and know teachers will deal with it on the rare occasions it happens. Pupils respect difference. Sixth-form students say they feel comfortable being themselves in what is a supportive setting. There are opportunities each Monday afternoon for pupils to take part in a wide range of enrichment activities. Pupils access sporting competitions, music lessons and other events, such as 'Charnfest'. They add to their learning in the classroom through educational visits, such as to Birmingham Symphony Hall. Pupils in the 'Inclusion Hub' enjoy trips to Beacon Hill and Bradgate Park.

What the school should improve

• Not all teachers check pupils' understanding well enough before moving learning on. As a result, some pupils can struggle to understand more complex subject knowledge and connect this with what they have already learned. When this is the case, these pupils do not develop the deep and detailed knowledge of their subjects that leaders want them to gain. Leaders should ensure that teachers understand how best to support pupils in connecting their learning and deepening their understanding.
• Some pupils, including those who are most vulnerable, are persistently absent. Some sixth-form students are not always punctual. When this is the case, these pupils and students are not able to benefit from the good education which the school is providing. Leaders have begun to address this. They should ensure that all pupils and students attend well.

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