South Bromsgrove High

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 April 2023

South Bromsgrove High school leaders and pupils share the same high aspirations. Pupils understand and follow the school values to be respectful, resilient, honest and hardworking. Relationships between pupils and staff are warm and courteous. The sixth-form provision enables students to achieve exceptionally well. Students in the sixth form also support many areas of school life, including younger pupils' learning and as leaders of house competitions. There is a purposeful atmosphere around the school. Pupils say they can focus on their learning well. Most pupils work hard and want to do well. In a few subjects, pupils can lose interest and concentration. However, teachers act quickly and efficiently to address any behaviour issues that arise. This, along with the well- thought-out curriculum, enables pupils to achieve well. Leaders prioritise pupils' personal development. The extra-curricular programme is rich and diverse. Pupils regularly take part in a range of clubs, such as debating, yoga and cross-country. Many pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special education needs and/or disabilities (SEND), participate in activities. These include the design and upkeep of the school garden. Significantly high numbers of pupils participate in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Pupils say the Eisteddfod and house competitions are exceptionally well supported. They are the highlights of the year.

What the school should improve

• In Year 9, teachers do not use assessments consistently or effectively, to check and feed back on what pupils know and can remember. This means that some pupils in Year 9 do not understand what the feedback from teachers means and what they have to do to improve. Leaders should ensure that all teachers use a consistent and effective approach to assessment to regularly check what pupils have learned and to identify and address any gaps in pupils' knowledge and understanding.
• Some pupils with SEND and disadvantaged pupils miss too much school compared with their peers. This holds back their progress and achievement. Leaders should work closely with parents and carers and external agencies to secure more regular attendance for all pupils.

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