Christchurch Learning Centre

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 June 2023

Pupils settle quickly because of the exceptionally strong induction into academic and pastoral support. They value the effective relationships they build with tutors and class teachers. Pupils feel safe. Adults have high expectations of pupils' behaviour and academic performance. Pupils study a broad range of subjects. Staff are excellent role models. They champion every pupil. There is a sharp focus on praise and rewarding pupils for following instructions, adhering to behaviour policies and working hard. Pupils like receiving 'behaviour and attainment points' in lessons. This immediate feedback helps them to engage in learning quickly and become successful. Pupils regain confidence in their education. There is a strong emphasis on teaching pupils about equality and diversity. Pupils learn about managing finances and important life skills, such as how to cook. There are a wealth of extra-curricular activities, including canoeing and health and beauty workshops. Off-site visits deepen pupils' knowledge, for example to Southbourne to study coastal erosion. The curriculum teaches pupils to have self-control and take pride in their learning. If pupils become dysregulated, skilled staff use highly consistent approaches to de-escalate situations quickly and safely. Staff deal with any derogatory language or bullying swiftly.

What the school should improve

• On occasions, leaders do not think through curriculum decisions as well as they might. When this happens, a minority of pupils' typically high engagement with learning dips and teaching is not consistently high in quality. Leaders need to ensure that all curriculum decisions enable all pupils to master curriculum content exceptionally well and at the right time, so that pupils' work is of a consistently high quality.

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