Monk's Walk School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 19 September 2023

Pupils enjoy attending school. They learn in an environment where positive relationships help everyone flourish. Pupils work hard to achieve the high expectations their teachers have for them. Pupils appreciate that they are supported to do their best and their successes are celebrated. This ensures that pupils feel safe to challenge themselves and, consequently, achieve well. There are a wide range of opportunities to develop pupils' interests and talents. Pupils value playing in a sports team, representing their house or being part of the orchestra. They celebrate these with the same enthusiasm as they do their academic achievements. Pupils are well behaved, polite and respectful. Their pride in their school is evident. They warmly welcome visitors and show off their and others' successes. Pupils understand and celebrate difference. They know that difference is never a reason to be unkind, which means this kind of behaviour is rarely seen. Sixth-form students value the expertise of their teachers. Students appreciate how this encourages a deeper understanding of complex concepts. They feel privileged to take on the role of positive role models for other pupils. They are a visible and respected presence around the school.

What the school should improve

• There are inconsistencies in the expectations of how pupils explain what they have learned in their written work. In some subjects, teachers do not always ensure that pupils explain fully how, for example, they have reached their final conclusion using subject-specific knowledge and vocabulary. This means that the written work of some pupils does not demonstrate that pupils are deepening their knowledge and understanding in a curriculum area. The school should ensure that, in individual subjects, teachers precisely determine the expectations for explaining learning through written communication. This will enable pupils to consistently show the detail and depth of what they know and remember.

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