Samuel Laycock School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 October 2024

Samuel Laycock School has high expectations for pupils' personal and academic achievement. These expectations are fully realised. The school harnesses and nurtures pupils' talents and interests. For example, in performing arts, pupils find their voice and the confidence to perform. In sports, pupils develop leadership skills and use these skills to coach others. Lunch clubs, after school clubs and residential activities stretch and challenge pupils to try something new. Pupils talk with enthusiasm about their trips abroad, the school choir and their love of the outdoors. In Year 11, pupils stay in a self-catering caravan by the sea. They shop and cook their own food. They also plan their activities. This experience further develops their independence and readiness for leaving school. Pupils feel that they are treated equally in their school. They respect and look after each other. Pupils in Year 7 have an older 'buddy' who helps them to settle into their new school. Some pupils have had specialist training to help them to listen and chat to other pupils who may have emotional, relationship or friendship worries. Pupils feel safe in school and have trusted adults who they can talk to.

What the school should improve

• Some aspects of the curriculum are in the early stages of implementation. In these areas, some pupils' learning is not as secure as it should be. The school should ensure that the curriculum is well-embedded to ensure that pupils achieve highly across all areas.

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