The Banovallum School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 2 March 2023

This is a school where staff want the best for all pupils. Leaders have a clear vision for the school. They are determined that pupils will succeed. They have put ambitious plans in place. They are helping pupils to know more and remember more. Staff and pupils are proud of the school. The curriculum is carefully designed to match the needs and aspirations of pupils. They can choose from a wide range of subjects. In all subjects, leaders have considered the important knowledge and skills that pupils need to learn. Teachers regularly check that pupils are on track. Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school. Leaders have ensured that the school behaviour policy is fair and consistent. Pupils get on well with each other. When they have a problem, they know that there is someone available to help them. Bullying is rare and, when it happens, pupils are confident that it will be dealt with. The school is a harmonious community. Leaders give pupils many opportunities to take part in extra activities, such as clubs and trips. This helps pupils to learn more about the wider world. It prepares them well for adult life.

What the school should improve

• Leaders have not yet fully ensured that all pupils make the right choices to follow an academically rigorous curriculum in key stage 4. This may limit the opportunities that some pupils can access later on. Leaders should ensure that pupils are given high- quality guidance to make ambitious choices when they select their key stage 4 courses.
• The support given to pupils who enter the school with reading skills that are below average is variable. Leaders should ensure that a sequenced and well-planned reading curriculum is embedded, so that all early readers catch up quickly.

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