Churchdown School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 March 2026

Pupils enjoy learning and benefit from effective teaching. Those with barriers to learning and/or well-being progress well through the curriculum. Disadvantaged pupils achieve very well, often outperforming their peers in national examinations. At key stage 4, pupils typically achieve highly. For example, pupils consistently secure the solid foundations that they need in English and mathematics. Across a wide variety of subjects, pupils achieve above the national average in examinations. At key stage 5, students typically achieve at least in line with national averages. As a result, pupils of all ages are well prepared for their next steps. Pupils feel a strong sense of belonging to Churchdown. They are proud to attend the school and enjoy warm, respectful relationships with staff. Pupils cooperate very well with each other, developing strong teamwork and social skills. Pupils benefit from an extensive range of wider opportunities. They are determined to gain the school’s ‘Edge’ rewards to reflect their participation and achievement. Pupils develop their broader knowledge and skills through experiences such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. They learn about potential future careers by attending a ‘business breakfast’, for example. Pupils learn about democracy and representation through the school’s ‘parliament’. Pupils behave impeccably. They follow routines willingly and appreciate the clear expectations that leaders and staff have of them. Pupils feel safe in school and are confident that bullying or harassment is dealt with seriously and effectively. This is rarely required, however. Pupils have high attendance. This reflects how well they thrive in school and the care that staff provide. Staff work effectively and with clarity to remove barriers to pupils’ attendance and achievement. This ensures that all pupils have positive experience. Pupils are very well prepared for life in modern Britain. They contribute positively to the school and wider community and behave with respect and integrity.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should strengthen further the quality of teaching, so that all pupils, including post-16 students, achieve highly.

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