Cotham School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 October 2023

Cotham School is diverse and inclusive. Pupils enjoy attending. They feel safe in school and learn how to stay safe in the wider community. Pupils know that staff care about them and will help them. The values of 'respect, achievement and diversity' underpin all aspects of school life. There are high expectations for what all pupils can achieve. The school strives to provide the same high-quality education to all pupils, regardless of their starting points or the challenges they face. Pupils behave well. They are polite and friendly. The school supports pupils who need extra help to meet the high expectations that staff have of them. Bullying is rare and is stopped quickly if it does occur. The atmosphere around the school is calm and harmonious. Learning is rarely interrupted by poor behaviour. The range of extra-curricular clubs enable pupils to develop their talents and interests. A recent production of 'Matilda' is a source of pride for many pupils and parents. Leadership opportunities include reading buddies, sports leaders, house captains and 'respect ambassadors'. Pupils contribute to the life of the school and the wider community.

What the school should improve

• Sometimes the work given to pupils does not reflect the ambition of the curriculum. When this is the case, pupils cannot deepen their learning as far as they could. The school needs to ensure that the way the curriculum is taught enables pupils to build on their knowledge at the right time.

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