St Bernard’s High School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Key findings

This is a good school that provides an exceptionally safe and happy atmosphere. Despite some significant strengths, it is good rather than outstanding because achievement is not as good in mathematics and modern foreign languages as it is in other subjects, and the quality of teaching and learning is good but not yet consistently outstanding across the school. Students are making good progress overall given their starting points.

Attainment at GCSE is above average and currently high in English, drama, music, technology and religious education. Progress is consistently outstanding in English. Behaviour and safety are outstanding.

Students are considerate, polite and courteous to staff and each... other, and this has a very positive effect on learning. Attendance is well above average and reflects the students' enjoyment of their time at the academy. Teaching is good overall, with some outstanding and some satisfactory practice.

There is a positive learning atmosphere in lessons and teachers have high expectations for all students. However, not all teachers are using marking or questioning effectively enough to support learning or encouraging students to take greater responsibility for their own learning. Leadership and management are good.

The headteacher has a precise understanding of the areas for development, including the performance and professional development needs of staff. Senior leaders and subject leaders provide good quality leadership of teaching, although not all teachers are regularly reviewing the progress of their students towards their subject performance targets. The curriculum contributes exceptionally well to the students' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

The sixth form is good as there is a range of courses on offer and most students make good progress in their AS and A2 examinations. There are many opportunities for students to demonstrate leadership and make a contribution to the whole school. Most students progress to higher education or employment.

Information about the school

The academy is a Catholic school for girls in Key Stages 3 and 4, with a mixed sixth form. It is of average size and is currently oversubscribed. It serves students from the local community and beyond, so a significant number travel some distance to the academy.

The majority of students are from White British backgrounds, although nearly a quarter of students are from a range of minority ethnic backgrounds including Black African, Asian and East European heritage. The percentage of students with English as an additional language is average. The proportion of students supported at school action plus or who have a statement of special educational needs is below average.

The percentage of students known to be eligible for free school meals is also below average. The academy has specialisms in the arts and science. It meets the current floor standard, which sets the government's minimum expectations for students' attainment and progress.

There have been recent improvements to the buildings, including extensive refurbishment and the development of the main dining room and the sixth form study area. The school became an academy in August 2011. The school has received the Artsmark Gold, Activemark, Leading Edge and National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE) Challenge awards, and has achieved National Healthy Schools status.