Presdales School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils thrive at Presdales School. Pupils explore a wide range of interests. They access a vast range of clubs, from crochet to water polo.

There are numerous overseas trips. Many pupils take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's award scheme. There are also chances to develop leadership skills as subject ambassadors, school council representatives and prefects.

The school's 'super-curriculum' gives them opportunities to research and deepen their knowledge of a wide range of subjects. These opportunities help pupils become confident and active young citizens.

Pupils have positive relationships with staff and each other.

They are kind, positive and polite. ...They know how to keep themselves safe. They feel valued.

Pupils, and their parents and carers, appreciate the support that they receive.

The school fully prepares pupils for the next stages of their education or employment. Pupils learn extensively about the world of work and what it is like to go to university.

Pupils respond positively to the challenge of a highly ambitious curriculum. They commit themselves wholeheartedly to their learning. They work enthusiastically and exceptionally hard in lessons.

Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), achieve highly.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school has very high expectations of pupils' learning and their conduct. Pupils follow a broad curriculum in key stages 3 and 4.

Most pupils study two languages. The curriculum is carefully designed. Teachers understand how pupils learn and the knowledge they need to succeed.

Important knowledge is introduced in chunks so that pupils can build their understanding securely over time. Teachers regularly revisit previous learned knowledge. Pupils make links with new learning so that it sticks in their memory.

Teachers identify likely misconceptions accurately. They ensure that pupils' grasp of knowledge is accurate.

Teachers know the needs of their pupils very well.

They adapt the curriculum with great skill. All pupils, including those with SEND, access learning successfully. Teachers check pupils' understanding regularly.

If there are any gaps, these are swiftly identified and teaching adapted to support pupils to catch up. Consequently, pupils of all abilities can tackle challenging tasks. They produce high-quality work across the full range of subjects.

The school understands the vital importance of reading. Many opportunities to read are given to pupils, for example across the curriculum in all subjects and during form time. Reading is celebrated.

Staff check how well pupils can read. When pupils need additional help, they receive effective support. This helps them become fluent and accurate readers.

Students in the sixth form receive an exceptional education. This prepares them well for their next steps in life. They enjoy studying a demanding curriculum.

Students develop their skills as scholars. They are challenged to think and reflect on what they learn. Students discuss the world around them confidently and articulately.

They learn how to study independently. Students actively contribute to the school and local community. Many sixth-form students are 'big sisters' and 'big brothers'.

They support younger pupils in lessons. Some students volunteer in a local special school.

Pupils are determined to be the best they can be.

They behave exceptionally well in lessons. Pupils support each other as they learn. On the very rare occasions that pupils do not manage their behaviour well, staff take the time to discuss it with them.

As a result, the behaviour of these pupils improves. Pupils who find it hard to attend school are given personalised support in the learning hub; this helps to ensure that pupils attend school regularly.

The school's personal, social and health education curriculum prepares pupils for adulthood.

Pupils learn about the importance of healthy and respectful relationships. They are aware of dangers such as county lines. They know how to spot when someone is trying to encourage them to act inappropriately.

Teachers plan carefully to ensure that all pupils can access the information they need to keep safe. Pupils learn about careers in all key stages. They research different jobs, participate in mock interviews and meet a host of employers.

Staff at all levels, including trustees, are determined for every pupil to succeed and develop. Leaders constantly reflect on how pupils' experiences in and out of lessons can be made even better.

Staff are given high-quality training.

They work together with colleagues to develop new approaches in the classroom. Staff feel well supported to develop their knowledge and skills.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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