The Community College, Bishop's Castle

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 June 2023

Pupils enjoy and achieve well at this happy and caring school, which aims to be the heart of its rural community. Leaders and other school staff have high expectations of all pupils. They expect all pupils and staff to work hard together so that pupils learn well. There is a strong team spirit in this school. A broad curriculum helps to prepare pupils for academic success. Most pupils have high attendance at school. Their conduct in lessons and around school usually meets leaders' high expectations. Pupils are enthusiastic and mature learners. Pupils know whom to speak to if they have any concerns or worries. They report that staff are quick to deal with any bullying. In this school, pupils feel safe and know that staff prioritise their well-being. They value the strong and caring relationships that exist between pupils and staff. Staff and pupils are usually friendly, kind and approachable. Pupils enjoy the different extra activities on offer in school. There are wide-ranging and inspiring opportunities for pupils' wider development. These prepare pupils well for life 'over the hills' after school. Parents and carers are generally very positive about the school. Most would recommend it to others.

What the school should improve

• Teachers' use of assessment to identify what pupils learn and remember is not consistent at key stage 3. In some instances, teachers do not check carefully enough that pupils know and remember the knowledge needed for their next steps. This can hinder pupils' learning. Leaders should ensure that assessment is used carefully so that new learning always builds on solid foundations.
• In a very few instances, low-level disruption hinders pupils' learning in, and enjoyment of, lessons. This is because teachers lack skill or confidence in managing it. Leaders should ensure that all teachers are able to insist on, and promote, positive behaviour and attitudes among their pupils.
• Leaders do not know the extent to which all pupils benefit from the rich variety of extra- curricular and wider enrichment opportunities. Leaders should check more carefully on which pupils take part in extra-curricular and wider enrichment activities so that pupils are encouraged to benefit equally.

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