Plymstock School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 19 April 2023

Most pupils enjoy learning. They aspire to do well. As one pupil commented, echoed by many others, teachers inspire him to 'go above and beyond'. Pupils have many opportunities to broaden their knowledge about the world around them. For example, pupils visit the theatre to see plays, such as 'An Inspector Calls'. Pupils take part in a range of sports and art clubs. Pupils and students in the sixth form develop strong leadership skills through a range of peer mentoring and tutoring roles. For example, Year 8 pupils train to support younger pupils with their reading. Some Year 11 boys support younger boys with their mental health. Year 10 pupils support younger pupils with the transition from primary school. Sixth-form students tutor younger pupils in English and mathematics. Pupils and sixth-form students carry out these roles with great responsibility and sensitivity. Pupils and students in the sixth form receive appropriate careers guidance. They learn about the routes into university, apprenticeships and employment. Most pupils behave well in lessons and around the school. Pupils are respectful and kind to each other. Pupils state that bullying is resolved by staff. However, a minority of pupils do not behave well.

What the school should improve

• The behaviour of a minority of pupils is not managed effectively. Consequently, these pupils do not learn well. Leaders need to ensure that the agreed behaviour approaches are implemented consistently so that all pupils behave respectfully.
• The personal, social and health education (PSHE) programme is not well planned. As a result, pupils do not learn enough about the world beyond school. Leaders must ensure that the personal development programme supports pupils to be well prepared for life in twenty-first century Britain.

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