Christ's College, Guildford

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 4 October 2022

Christ's College is an inclusive school that has been transformed by its current senior leaders. Pupils and their parents typically enthuse about the many improvements. As one parent said, 'The school has made massive strides forward since the appointment of the current principal, and standards, expectations and behaviour have improved drastically.' This is a school where pupils are known as individuals and staff work together to raise their aspirations and help them achieve their goals. Learning is enriched through a variety of clubs, trips and visiting speakers. Pupils enjoy the wide range of extra-curricular opportunities available, and are proud of the range of performing arts and sporting opportunities on offer. Positive relationships and respect underpin the calmness and cooperation in classrooms. While there can be occasional boisterous behaviour by a few pupils at breaktimes, any form of deliberate unkindness or bullying is rare here. Pupils are well cared for and safe here. They know which adults they can turn to should they have any concerns. Meeting individual needs and promoting pupils' well-being is at the heart of the school's Christian values. New Year 7 pupils told inspectors they found it easy to make friends quickly here. One parent spoke for the majority when they reported, 'Great school, love it and highly recommended! Nurturing and caring teachers, brilliant facilities!'

What the school should improve

• Teachers follow the school's agreed pedagogical and assessment approaches. However, some teachers' approaches to checking what pupils already know and can do still require refinement. As a result, pupils are not always given the right tasks and opportunities to deepen their thinking and knowledge. Building on the best practice in the school, leaders need to ensure all staff have expertise in this area and so boost all pupils' reading, oracy and thinking skills.
• There is some inconsistency in teachers' implementation of the PSHE curriculum. Consequently, some pupils do not securely build upon their learning while others, including those with SEND, do not always retain their learning in some areas. Staff training and enhanced monitoring are needed to ensure more consistent teaching better meets the needs of all pupils in this area.
• The majority of parents value the communication from the school and recognise the many strengths that Christ's College offers their children. However, a small minority feel that their worries have not been heard. Leaders and governors need to continue to refine their communication systems. This will help all parents feel more fully involved and informed about the high quality of education and support on offer for their children.

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