Reddish Vale High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 1 July 2026

Pupils at Reddish Vale High School benefit from an ambitious curriculum that is generally taught effectively. Staff have appropriate expectations for pupils. Most pupils engage well with the opportunities to learn. This helps pupils to progress well through the curriculum and achieve better than they did in the past. Although pupils' attainment remains below the national averages at the end of Year 11, more pupils are better prepared for their next steps in education. However, despite considerable improvements to pupils’ experiences in lessons, the learning of some pupils is impeded by gaps in their knowledge. Staff take the time to understand pupils’ different circumstances. They do what they can to help pupils overcome barriers that affect their engagement and learning. Pupils typically feel well supported. This contributes to many pupils attending school regularly. Even so, some pupils need more help to ensure that they are not routinely absent from school. Most pupils enjoy school. They typically feel safe. Pupils have positive relationships with other pupils and staff. They are encouraged to think about how their conduct affects those around them. They generally behave well and show courtesy and consideration to others. Pupils appreciate the recognition and rewards that they receive for displaying positive behaviours. When needed, pupils are well guided and supported if their behaviour falls short of leaders' clear expectations. Leaders deal with bullying incidents seriously and swiftly. Pupils are encouraged to get involved in the wider life of the school. Pupils on the school council gain experience of representing the views of others. Many pupils are keen to start, lead or participate in the diverse range of opportunities on offer. For example, pupils develop their interests and talents through the ‘Glitz’ cheerleading club and the steel pan club. Elsewhere, other pupils benefit from the therapeutic opportunities afforded to them by being involved with the school’s farm.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that all teachers consistently identify and address gaps in pupils’ knowledge, including their knowledge of writing, spelling and number, so that they build a secure foundation on which to build and achieve as well as they should.
• Leaders should continue to develop and refine their work to remove the barriers that lead to pupils' absence so that all pupils attend school regularly.

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