Ofsted praises Carnforth High School’s 'caring and inclusive community'
The latest Ofsted inspection at Carnforth High School has recognised the school as an inclusive place where pupils are happy to be part of a caring community.
The school, in Kellet Road, has 685 pupils and is part of The Bay Learning Trust.
Inspectors visiting on April 14 and 15 highlighted a shared ambition for pupils to achieve well.
They found that pupils’ behaviour is positive, that they support one another, and that they make close friendships.
The report also noted that pupils are friendly and respectful, and that staff and pupils work together to create a welcoming and polite culture where bullying is rare.
Head Paul Staniforth said: “We are pleased that the inspection team acknowledged the many strengths and qualities of our school.
“In particular, that as a result of the positive contributions made by everyone within our school community, there is a calm, respectful culture in the school where pupils feel safe."
Overall, the school was graded as meeting the expected standard for inclusion, attendance and behaviour, personal development and wellbeing, and leadership and governance.
Safeguarding was also found to be met. Inspectors graded curriculum and teaching, and achievement, as needing attention. The report noted that pupils typically make progress in line with national averages, although some do not attain as well as they could.
Mr Staniforth added: “As recognised by the inspection team, we have developed a suitably ambitious and well organised curriculum and where leaders focus on improvement, there is a positive impact.
“We are confident that the hard work and dedication of pupils and staff throughout this year, with the support of our parents and carers, will be reflected in this summer’s examination results.”
The inspection team praised the work of the school for pupils who have barriers to their learning. They noted that pupils were well supported, with the school providing effective pastoral support.
They also recognised the work of leaders in the support of pupils who struggle with reading, mathematics and handwriting with the support received having a positive impact on improving these vital skills.
The school’s personal development curriculum and extra-curricular programme was acknowledged as allowing pupils to broaden their knowledge of the world and themselves.
Pupils are also supported in making decisions about their next steps through a valued and effective careers programme.