Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils and sixth form students flourish at this school.

They feel happy and safe here. They know that the school goes out of its way to provide them with nurture, care and an outstanding educational experience. Sixth-form students receive an exceptional offer.

The behaviour of pupils is exemplary. They are very mature and respectful. All pupils have a strong work ethic.

They are keen learners who show high levels of independence in their studies, making good use of technology to do so.

The school has the highest aspirations for its pupils. As a result, they achieve very well.

The school offers a challenging, interesting and accessible curric...ulum for all pupils. There are low proportions of disadvantaged pupils in the school. However, the curriculum meets their needs very well.

Pupils benefit from an extensive enrichment programme. Many enjoy attending a wide range of activities such as sports, performing arts and debating. Pupils develop their talents and widen their interests extremely well.

The school's values of resilience, reciprocity, resourcefulness, reflection and respect are lived and breathed by the whole school community. This is an inclusive school where difference is valued. Pupils have a strong understanding of different faiths, cultures and ways of life.

As one pupil commented, 'Diversity is encouraged, not just tolerated here.'

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

Recognising that historically, some pupils were taught an overly narrow curriculum at key stage 4, the school took swift and decisive action. It now provides pupils with a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum.

A high proportion of pupils now study the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. Pupils achieve exceptionally well across the curriculum.

Across subjects, the curriculum has been carefully designed and logically sequenced.

This allows pupils to build on what they already know. Staff make sure that pupils study interesting texts and discuss challenging current issues. Pupils and sixth-form students relish grappling with stimulating themes and seeing the world from different viewpoints.

Teachers have very strong subject knowledge. They explain ideas thoroughly and check regularly that pupils have understood these. In this way, teachers readily address any misconceptions that pupils may have acquired.

In performing arts, for example, teachers ask well-considered and probing questions to deepen pupils' understanding. Pupils are eloquent and reflective about their learning. Pupils and sixth-form students, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, achieve very well.

Outcomes in GCSE and A level examinations are high. Students are very well prepared for the next stage of their education and wider life.

Pupils' attitudes to learning are exceptionally strong.

All pupils focus well on their learning during lessons and independent study. Sixth-form students act as role models, mentoring and supporting younger pupils. The school is universally calm and orderly because expectations of pupils' conduct are commonly understood.

Together, staff and students create and maintain the strong culture of respect that permeates school life. On the very rare occasion that derogatory language occurs, the school acts immediately. No form of discrimination is tolerated.

Provision in the sixth form is very strong. Students have excellent relationships with staff who provide great pastoral and academic support. As one student commented, 'the teaching here is top class'.

There is a wide and ambitious curriculum offer. The school also offers students a wealth of enrichment experiences such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award, young enterprise scheme and healthy lifestyle programmes.

There is high emphasis placed on pupils' personal development.

The school considers the education of the whole child and ensures that disadvantaged pupils benefit consistently from the well-planned programme. Pupils are taught to manage risk, about healthy relationships and skills for adulthood. This helps them to make well considered life choices.

Pupils appreciate the helpful and timely pastoral support available to them, particularly around mental health. The school offers a range of leadership opportunities which are very effective at developing pupils' characters. Moreover, pupils know that their opinions really matter to leaders because they play an active role in decision making.

The school ensures that pupils and sixth form students receive a comprehensive careers programme, including independent advice and work experience.

Leaders, including governors and trustees know their school very well. They focus meticulously on the actions that will further enhance pupils' educational experience.

Those responsible for governance, together with the trust, support leaders very well. Staff appreciate the high-quality training that they receive. They feel valued and know that leaders are mindful of their workload and well-being.

Parents also endorse the work of the school. In the parent survey, one parent summed up the views of many, commenting, 'The school challenges students and provides a supportive and caring environment.'

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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