Somervale Secondary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 June 2022

Pupils come first in this happy, caring and accepting school. They think that they are well looked after by staff who know them well as individuals. Pupils know that staff are there to help and support them whenever needed. Leaders have a clear vision for the school. They are ambitious for pupils' success. Pupils experience a well-developed curriculum in their subjects. Staff have high expectations of pupils. Pupils try their best in lessons and produce work of a high standard. Teachers explain subject content clearly to pupils. They guide and support pupils so that they can complete their work successfully. Pupils who receive extra support achieve alongside their classmates. Discrimination is not accepted. The school is a welcoming place where pupils feel comfortable to be themselves. Bullying is not tolerated. Pupils are confident that staff will deal with any concerns quickly and effectively. Pupils take part in many opportunities that help them to develop their confidence and resilience. They learn important knowledge to help them become thinking citizens of the future. This also helps them to stay safe and to make well-thought-through decisions and choices.

What the school should improve

• Assessment is not used consistently across all subjects. Some pupils spend too much time studying content that they already know. This slows their progress through the curriculum. Leaders need to ensure that assessment is used effectively so that teachers accurately understand what pupils know in order to adapt learning accordingly.

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