William Edwards School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 March 2026

Pupils learn in a calm school. Staff apply school approaches to behaviour management consistently and fairly. Pupils understand what they can and can not do. They follow the guidance of staff well and are generally attentive in lessons. They enjoy the lessons that are taught well. However, sometimes, when lessons do not sufficiently engage their interest, pupils' learning slows and their enthusiasm can wane. Leaders recognise this. Their recent, positive actions mean that this is changing for the better. Pupils feel safe at school. They understand that people are different from each other and respect this. They know the difference between right and wrong. Bullying is rare. If it does happen, staff manage this promptly and fairly. Pupils can be themselves at William Edwards School. Leaders strive to ensure that this is the case. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) benefit from the systems in place to identify their barriers to learning. Appropriate support is provided that helps to meet their individual needs. They therefore learn alongside their peers. Pupils with SEND, and disadvantaged pupils' needs are met well, meaning they learn and progress appropriately. There is a wide range of leadership opportunities here. Older pupils learn to support each other, and to help teach younger pupils. These opportunities help to develop their self-esteem and confidence. They learn how they can be positive contributors to society. Pupils understand their leadership roles well. They take pride in their work to help others. They experience a range of opportunities which help expand their horizons and give them an understanding of the wider world. Pupils are being prepared well for life in modern Britain. They are ready for the next stage of their education, employment or training.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should support teachers' understanding of how to use assessment information effectively and to use this information to adapt their lessons so that pupils learn well in all subjects.
• Leaders should ensure that all teachers use the agreed and effective pedagogical approaches that fully engage pupils' interest and help them to remember what they have been taught.
• Leaders should ensure that actions to improve the school are taken swiftly and that they evaluate the effectiveness of their work in a timely manner.

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