Wilmslow High School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Leaders and managers have acted quickly to address weaknesses identified at the previous inspection.

The school continues to improve and secure good outcomes for pupils. Leaders have developed their support systems further to ensure that the majority of disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) make the progress they should across the school. Most teachers have a detailed understanding of the pupils they teach.

Consequently, teaching often matches pupils' abilities at key stage 4. There is strong teaching in key stage 3 in many subjects. However, some teaching does not engage or challenge pup...ils, who said they could make better progress.

Pupils are polite and well mannered. They wear their uniform with pride. They are articulate and most cooperate with one another respectfully.

The school provides a wide range of extra opportunities for pupils to develop their personal and social skills and interests. The school is rightly proud of pupils' sporting achievements. The school's pastoral systems are very effective.

Pupils have access to a range of support to help them manage their behaviour, emotions and mental health. Many aspects of the school's academic curriculum are well thought out and implemented. Most pupils attend school regularly.

For the small minority who do not, the school employs a wide range of support to help pupils and their families. The vast majority of pupils, staff and parents are highly positive about the school. A minority express dissatisfaction on a range of issues.

The school's current systems to capture the views and perceptions of its stakeholders do not provide accurate information about their concerns such as those raised during the inspection. The provision in the sixth form is strong. Students enjoy their courses and make good progress.

Nearly all students go on to meaningful post-18 pathways. Governors are knowledgeable and experienced. They hold leaders to account and understand well the school's strengths and weaknesses.

Information about this school

The school is a larger than average-sized secondary school. The proportion of pupils eligible for pupil premium funding is lower than the national average. The proportion of pupils with SEND is higher than the national average, including the proportion with an EHC plan.

The majority of pupils are White British. The school has specialist resourced provision for hearing impaired pupils and for pupils with autistic spectrum disorders. The school uses a range of off-site provision to educate 13 pupils: The Arc in Stockport, Broadstone School in Stockport and Macclesfield College.