Corfe Hills School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 September 2021

Leaders have high expectations of pupils, to which pupils respond very well. Pupils behave maturely and responsibly throughout the day. Any pupils who disrupt learning realise very quickly that this is unacceptable. Pupils are punctual to lessons and engage well with their learning. Pupils attend school regularly and are delighted to be back in familiar routines. Pupils are safe and content. They understand the dangers of the internet. Recently, pupils have received more information about the impact of sexual harassment. This has made a substantial impression on many, for the better. This epitomises leaders' determination to do the right things swiftly. They care about the moral aspects of pupils' education as well as the academic. Pupils' well-being is central to the way leaders provide education, in school and out. Extra-curricular activities are starting again, so that pupils can develop their own unique talents beyond subjects learned. Leaders understand that recent times have affected many in the school community emotionally. Leaders are considerate of this and, as a result, staff and pupils thrive in school. Pupils do not think bullying happens very often and, if it does, it is dealt with effectively. Pupils are confident to report any concerns they have.

What the school should improve

• Weaker readers are not always provided with enough support. This means that some pupils struggle to read with fluency. Leaders should ensure that pupils, who require additional support with reading, have suitable books that match their phonics knowledge.
• The academic transition between Years 8 and 9, and Year 11 and the sixth form, is not preparing pupils sufficiently for the next stages of their learning. Consequently, pupils are dealing with too many new concepts when they arrive at school or start their studies in the sixth form. Subject leaders need to ensure that the curriculum builds incrementally on what pupils already know.

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