Hartford Church of England High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 June 2023

Pupils are happy in this school. They say that they like their teachers and respect other pupils. Most pupils say that there is someone they can talk to if they have a concern. Leaders usually deal with bullying effectively. Pupils told inspectors that behaviour was not good in the past. However, they believe that it is much better now. Most teachers have high expectations for pupils' behaviour. Classrooms and corridors are orderly and calm. Pupils are usually punctual to their lessons. In most subjects, pupils rise to leaders' high expectations for their learning. Most pupils achieve well. Pupils' personal development is supported well through the curriculum. Pupils understand the importance of equality and the impact of prejudice. They recognise the importance of healthy relationships. They know how to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. Pupils enjoy a wide range of extra-curricular activities. Pupils who play musical instruments often perform in assemblies. There is a range of sporting clubs, as well as wide participation in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Leaders reward pupils with 'Caritas and Veritas' awards in key stage 3. These recognise the contribution that pupils make towards the school's core values.

What the school should improve

• In some subjects, leaders have not identified the small blocks of knowledge that pupils must know and remember. As a result, pupils do not build their knowledge securely over time. Leaders should finalise their curriculum thinking in these subjects.
• Leaders do not provide effective enough support for those pupils who find reading difficult. These pupils struggle to read with fluency or comprehension. This prevents them from accessing the curriculum. Leaders should ensure that pupils who have gaps in their reading knowledge receive the support that they need to become confident and fluent readers.
• Some disadvantaged pupils are regularly absent from school. As a result, they have gaps in their learning. Leaders should ensure that appropriate actions are put in place to support the individual needs of these pupils so that they can attend school regularly and benefit from all that is on offer.

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