Weston Secondary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 30 June 2026

Pupils are proud to attend Weston Secondary School. They value the changes that have been made to improve their school. Pupils are grateful for the support and praise they receive from staff. There are positive relationships between pupils and staff. Pupils also appreciate the clear rules and routines. They generally behave well and have risen to the challenge of meeting increased expectations of behaviour. Many pupils comment on the way that staff ‘catch them in’ rather than ‘catch them out’, and they really appreciate this approach. Pupils are safe and happy in school. They benefit from the inclusive culture that leaders have created. Pupils know that they have someone to help them if they have any concerns. They are confident, friendly and motivated. Pupils are kind to each other and do not tolerate bullying on the rare occasions it does occur. Pupils enjoy lessons and focus well. They are increasingly determined in their learning, and many pupils embody the school’s values of ‘aspire, believe, achieve’. Most pupils understand the importance of high attendance and are attending school more regularly. However, some pupils do not attend school as often as they should. Over time, many pupils do not achieve well enough in national tests and examinations. Pupils are not always prepared for their next steps. Teaching, however, is now generally effective. This improved provision means pupils now learn the important knowledge they need. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and those who are disadvantaged, are ably supported by staff. Pupils in the 'Hive’ and ‘Gateway’ provisions thrive. Teachers provide expert support for pupils who speak English as an additional language. Pupils celebrate their multicultural community and learn about diversity and respect. Pupils enjoy a range of enrichment opportunities. This includes whole-school performances, school council leadership roles and participation in competitive sport. These opportunities support them to develop into confident and resilient individuals.

What the school should improve

• Leaders must continue strengthening the attendance strategy to improve the attendance of all pupils, with a particular focus on reducing persistent absence for the most vulnerable pupils.
• Leaders must ensure pupils achieve consistently well across the curriculum so that they are well prepared for the next steps in their education, employment or training.
• Leaders should ensure that staff’s use of assessment is consistently precise, so that any misconceptions or gaps in pupils’ understanding are remedied swiftly.

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