Holywell School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 11 July 2023

Pupils at Holywell School attend a school with values rooted in its Christian ethos. They are welcoming and friendly. They take on responsibilities that make their environment and community richer and more rewarding. For example, Year 8 mathematics and English mentors help Year 6 pupils to prepare for their end-of-key-stage tests. The junior worship team works with the local reverend to plan and deliver services for pupils in the church for key Christian festivals. The majority of pupils behave well and have a positive attitude to their learning. They know that their teachers want them to do well. Pupils respond to these aspirations by staying focused and working hard. However, there are some pupils who find it more challenging to concentrate in class. At times, these pupils disrupt the learning of others. Pupils are tolerant and respectful of each other's differences. They understand that everyone is an individual. They know it is unacceptable to be unkind because someone is different. Bullying is not tolerated, and cases are rare. If it does happen, pupils know they have someone to talk to and are confident it will be dealt with.

What the school should improve

• Not all teachers adapt their teaching to meet the needs of all pupils. This means that some pupils do not learn as well and make limited progress through the curriculum. Leaders need to ensure that all teachers adapt their teaching approaches to meet the needs of pupils with all levels of prior attainment and SEND effectively.
• Not all staff apply the behaviour management system consistently. This means that some pupils do not meet the high expectations that leaders have of them. This, in turn, leads to other pupils' learning being disrupted. Leaders should ensure that all staff use the agreed protocols for dealing with disruptive and disengaging behaviour consistently and fairly.

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