Dowdales School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Dowdales is a proud, thriving and ambitious community. Leaders aim high and lead by example.

The improved quality of teaching leads pupils to achieve well in many subjects, including science, English, mathematics, citizenship, humanities and modern foreign languages. Disadvantaged pupils and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are making stronger progress than previously in key stage 4 and good progress in key stage 3. Boys' achievement has significantly improved since last year and in some subjects, boys now outperform girls.

However, the engagement and progress of boys across the curriculum remain inconsiste...nt. Pupils behave well. Typically, pupils are polite, conscientious, and proud of their school.

This is a close-knit community where pupils are well known and well cared for. Attendance has improved since the inspection in January, but there is still work to do, particularly for disadvantaged pupils. There is a good level of challenge for pupils with high prior attainment in the vast majority of lessons.

Leaders and governors invest heavily in the curriculum. Pupils benefit from Dowdales being a lead associate school for the Royal Shakespeare Company and the North North West Mathematics Hub.

Information about this school

The proportion of pupils who have special educational needs support is below average and those with an education, health and care (EHC) plan is broadly average.

The school has a predominantly White British population. The proportion of pupils who are entitled to free school meals is below the national average. This school has links with the following alternative providers: The Moorfield Centre and Drop Zone.