Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 April 2025

Pupils are increasingly proud of their school. They recognise and appreciate the many improvements that the school has made. For example, the school now has high expectations for pupils' behaviour. Typically, pupils behave well in lessons and around the school site. These positive changes have made the school a more enjoyable place to be. Pupils' learning experiences have also improved considerably. However, some pupils do not achieve as well as they should. There is more to do to ensure that all pupils receive a good quality of education and that pupils' attendance meets leaders' high expectations. Staff build supportive relationships with pupils. This means that, for the most part, pupils feel that they have someone to talk to in school if they have a concern. This helps most pupils to feel safe and happy in school. Pupils take part in various clubs and activities that broaden their interests. For example, they participate in sports clubs and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Opportunities for pupils to contribute to the school community are increasing. For instance, pupils can become reading buddies for younger pupils or join the school council.

What the school should improve

• There is inconsistency in the implementation of the curriculum across subjects. In some areas, the school's teaching strategies are not yet fully embedded. This hampers how well some pupils achieve. The school should continue to prioritise the development of teachers' understanding of effective pedagogical approaches, ensuring these are applied consistently and successfully across all subjects.
• Some teachers do not make effective use of the information available regarding the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). As a result, these pupils are sometimes unable to access the curriculum fully and do not make the progress of which they are capable. The school should ensure that staff are fully equipped to successfully adapt the delivery of the curriculum for pupils with SEND.
• Some parents do not understand the rationale for the changes that are being made, particularly around staffing and behaviour. Consequently, these parents sometimes have a negative view of the school. The school should ensure that its communication with parents allows the school's vision and values to be better understood and supported by parents.
• Some pupils, including pupils with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, still miss too much school. This hinders how well these pupils learn. The school should ensure that these pupils and their families understand the importance of, and achieve, regular school attendance.

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