St Ives School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 30 November 2022

St Ives is a happy and welcoming school. The school's core values, including kindness and respect, are important to the school community. Staff and pupils reflect these values in the positive way they approach school life. One pupil's comment that reflected the views of many was, 'At this school, you can be yourself and everyone will accept you.' Leaders have high expectations for pupils' attitudes and behaviour. Pupils live up to these expectations. They conduct themselves well, both in lessons and around the school site. Bullying is rare. If it occurs, pupils are confident staff will act quickly and effectively. As a result, pupils feel safe at school. They say they can approach staff to report any concerns or worries. Pupils take part in a wide range of activities beyond the academic curriculum. The 'Be inspired' programme allows all pupils to try new pursuits each term. These include astronomy, learning British sign language and lakeside fishing. Many pupils also enjoy participating in The Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme or performing in musical shows.

What the school should improve

• Leaders have not fully developed a culture in which pupils read for pleasure. As a result, most pupils do not read widely or often beyond the curriculum. Leaders should ensure pupils read a rich and diverse range of texts to improve the culture of reading for pleasure.
• In some subjects, staff do not implement the curriculum consistently well. They do not have sufficient expertise. As a result, pupils do not learn as effectively as they could and are not as positive about their learning in these subjects. Leaders must ensure staff have the expertise they need to implement the curriculum fully.

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