The Bemrose School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 March 2024

Pupils benefit from the strong relationships they form with staff at this school. Pupils value the inclusive ethos created by leaders. One pupil summed up the views of many when they said, 'This is a school where you can be yourself.' Many pupils join the school part way through the academic year. The school supports these pupils to integrate into the school and continue their education very well. Staff have high expectations of pupils. Pupils recognise this and feel that staff care about them. They know that staff want them to do well. Pupils know to approach members of the safeguarding team or visit the 'cherry tree' if they have any worries or concerns. Pupils feel safe and happy here. Older pupils wear their golden ties with pride to demonstrate their academic success. Similarly, younger pupils know their achievements will be rewarded with golden tickets and the opportunity to be invited to sit at the golden table. Pupils know their voice helps the school improve further. There is an active pupil parliament in all year groups. Sixth-form students are encouraged to campaign for change which leads to further improving the experience of all pupils and staff at the school.

What the school should improve

• On occasions, some teachers do not match teaching activities precisely enough for some pupils to develop their learning further. As a result, some pupils do not have the opportunity to gain a depth of understanding. The school must ensure that teaching activities are designed to help pupils learn the intended curriculum.
• Formative assessment and questioning are not consistently well used by all teachers. As a result, knowledge gaps that some pupils have are not sharply addressed. The school must ensure that formative assessment and questioning is more effectively used to address gaps in pupils' knowledge.

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