Harlington Upper School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 October 2023

In the main, pupils enjoy their time in school. They have confidence that the school wants the best for them educationally. Pupils generally learn well and reach the high expectations of the school. In the sixth form, teachers and students develop effective partnerships, which ensures that students achieve well. Published examination results reflect the good quality of education pupils receive at this school. There have been notable improvements in pupils' behaviour over time. Expectations have been raised, and most pupils routinely respond positively to this. In lessons, pupils follow the routines set by their teachers and generally focus on their learning. While there remains some boisterous behaviour and examples of inappropriate language used when pupils are moving around school or socialising, careful monitoring of this shows that pupils feel this is improving. Pupils think there are aspects of the new behaviour expectations that can be strict, but they believe they are making the school a better place. Pupils are being given more opportunities to learn about the importance of diversity in modern Britain. The curriculum is helping pupils to better understand the need to be respectful to others and know the impact of their words and actions towards others, particularly those who are different to themselves.

What the school should improve

• The information provided for teachers about the needs of pupils with SEND sometimes lacks precision. As a result, teachers' provision for some pupils with SEND is not as effective as it could be. The school must ensure that teachers receive precise information so that pupils with SEND receive consistent and effective support.
• A small number of pupils do not meet the school's expectations for behaviour at social times. This means that, on occasion, boisterous behaviour, name calling, and inappropriate language are used by some pupils. While the behaviour of most pupils has improved, strategies have not worked for this small cohort. The school must continue its work to ensure that all pupils understand and comply with the school's expectations for behaviour, ensuring that strategies to improve behaviour at social times are effective.
• The school has not consulted with parents in enough depth about the changes it is making. Some parents are not confident in leaders' work and/or do not understand or support changes that have been made. The school needs to communicate effectively with parents to ensure that they understand the rationale behind the actions leaders take and the positive differences they are making.

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