Poltair School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 27 February 2024

Poltair School has high expectations of pupils' behaviour and high aspirations for their futures. The warm and respectful relationships that exist between staff and pupils underpin school life. Pupils are proud to attend the school. They are polite and enthusiastic and look after their school environment. Pupils are unwavering in their views that differences are celebrated and that any unkind behaviour is dealt with swiftly and supportively. Pupils here learn from a highly ambitious curriculum and achieve well. They are well prepared for their next steps. The school ensures that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are able to succeed academically. Pupils' character development is valued equally alongside this. Pupils here develop confidence and resilience. The 'Poltair+' programme provides all pupils with a range of opportunities in sports, performing arts, science and music. Many pupils take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Pupils of all ages take on leadership responsibilities. The recent appointment of reading ambassadors has raised the profile of reading within the school. Older pupils often support younger pupils, including with reading. They help their younger peers to settle into secondary school and support with clubs.

What the school should improve

• The implementation of the curriculum is not consistent in a few subjects. The work pupils complete does not always enable pupils to achieve the aims of the curriculum. As a result, pupils do not always remember what they have learned, or they are not given opportunities to deepen their thinking. The trust must ensure that teachers are supported to consistently implement the curriculum as intended so that pupils know and remember more in all subjects.

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