Old Buckenham High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 March 2023

There is a strong sense of community at Old Buckenham. Pupils and staff describe trusting each other, feeling safe and being happy. Most students say that if they are worried, they are confident that concerns will be taken seriously. Pupils speak highly of the relationship between staff and pupils. Almost all parents would recommend the school. Leaders in the school have high expectations of pupils. Most pupils consistently meet these expectations. Pupils wear their uniform with pride, and are polite and courteous to staff, visitors and each other. Standards of behaviour in classrooms and during social times are appropriate. Pupils are expected to take responsibility for their actions. They describe a 'nice environment' that has been improved by investment in facilities. Pupils and staff are clear that bullying happens in the school. This also happens online. However, most pupils say bullying is rare and that action will be taken to resolve issues quickly. Leaders do not tolerate bullying and pupils know this. Pupils understand how to protect themselves online and how to report concerns.

What the school should improve

• The behaviour system is not consistently applied by all teachers. This means that disruption is not addressed as swiftly as it should be. Leaders should ensure that their high expectations of this system are implemented consistently.
• Common misconceptions around spelling, punctuation and grammar are not identified systematically or regularly. A lack of feedback prevents pupils from acting on errors. Leaders should review the systems to ensure that this is regularly monitored and improved.

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