William Ellis School, located in London, has recently undergone an inspection on the 8th and 9th of October 2024, resulting in a commendable assessment across various key areas. The school has been rated as good in the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection grade of requires improvement.
Pupils at William Ellis School express enjoyment in attending, highlighting a strong sense of community where diversity is embraced and equality is prioritized. The school fosters robust relationships between pupils and staff, contributing to a supportive environment that prioritizes safety and welfare. Behaviour in classrooms and during social times is generally good, with the school actively promoting positive conduct and addressing issues related to derogatory language and discrimination.
The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve academically and develop personally. It has established an inclusive culture that effectively supports a higher-than-average proportion of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Additionally, pupils who may struggle to achieve high GCSE grades receive adequate support to access A-level or vocational courses in the sixth form. The school offers a wide range of enrichment activities, including sports, debating, and outdoor education, enhancing the overall educational experience.
William Ellis School has developed an ambitious curriculum that meets national standards and reflects high aspirations for its pupils. A significant majority of pupils are entered for the English Baccalaureate, with particularly strong achievements noted in mathematics and humanities. The sixth-form curriculum is extensive, providing a variety of A-level and vocational courses, and includes foundational courses to prepare students for advanced studies.
Teachers at the school possess the necessary subject expertise to deliver the curriculum effectively, ensuring that pupils build their knowledge over time. Regular revision practices help pupils retain key information, although some teaching does not consistently address identified knowledge gaps, which can hinder future learning. Staff training has been implemented to adapt teaching methods to meet diverse pupil needs, positively impacting those with special educational needs.
While the English curriculum is rich and broad, the school currently lacks a clear strategy to support pupils who are not proficient in phonics, which can affect their reading abilities across subjects. Positive attitudes towards learning are evident among pupils, who engage actively in discussions and utilize study facilities effectively.
The school provides effective impartial careers guidance, facilitating encounters with the world of work through various initiatives. Participation in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and numerous residential trips enriches the educational experience, promoting active citizenship among pupils. The leadership team shares a unified vision focused on enabling all pupils to succeed academically and develop the knowledge necessary for responsible citizenship.
The safeguarding arrangements at William Ellis School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school has identified areas for improvement, particularly in addressing knowledge gaps and developing a coherent strategy for phonics support. By focusing on these areas, the school aims to enhance its educational provision further and ensure that all pupils can achieve their full potential. Overall, William Ellis School demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment, with a clear focus on continuous improvement.
