Rugby High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 15 November 2022

Leaders, staff and pupils embody the school vision that, 'At Rugby High School we set heights in our heart'. Staff set high standards for pupils' behaviour. They expect pupils to work with determination and purpose. Pupils take up the challenge with vigour and gusto. They are dedicated and committed to their learning and to the school. Pupils' behaviour is exemplary. They work alongside teachers who want the very best for every pupil. Pupils are active members of the inclusive school community. They relish coming to school, and staff ensure they are safe. Pupils do not worry about bullying. They benefit hugely from a rich array of clubs, trips and visits. There really is something for everyone, from chamber choir to debating and from football to poetry. Staff and sixth-form students give up their time willingly to provide these opportunities. Leaders listen to pupils, for instance, through an active and involved school council. This all helps to foster a community founded in mutual respect where all know each other well. Leaders continually strive to improve, and they know the school well. They know there are elements that could be enhanced. For instance, they recognise that some aspects of pupils' personal development need to be strengthened.

What the school should improve

• Leaders have not ensured that all teachers use assessment effectively to systematically check pupils' understanding in lessons, including pupils with SEND. This means that some teachers are reliant on pupils asking for support, rather than consistently and accurately identifying the pupils that need help. Leaders should ensure that all teachers are making regular and effective checks on the learning of all pupils in all lessons so that they can address gaps in knowledge and provide timely support.
• Leaders have not ensured that all pupils in key stages 3 and 4 benefit from a high-quality careers education. As a result, some pupils do not have an in-depth knowledge of the full range of options available to them when they reach the end of key stage 4. Leaders should ensure that all pupils receive a detailed range of information about potential next steps so that pupils can confidently prepare for future success in employment, training or education.
• Leaders have not ensured that pupils in key stage 4 learn a robust personal development curriculum that prepares them for life in modern Britain. This means that pupils are not sufficiently well prepared for life outside of school. Leaders should ensure that all pupils in key stage 4 benefit from a high quality PSHE curriculum that gives them the detailed knowledge and skills they need for life beyond the school gates.

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