Stoke Newington School and Sixth Form, located in Hackney, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 5 and 6, 2022. The school is characterized by a diverse and inclusive environment where pupils take pride in their community. Students are noted for their politeness, welcoming nature, and articulate communication. They demonstrate a strong work ethic and generally exhibit good behavior. Reports indicate that bullying is infrequent, and when it does occur, it is effectively addressed by teachers, contributing to a safe atmosphere for all students.
The leadership at Stoke Newington School maintains high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to support student achievement, with enthusiastic teachers who engage students through interesting lessons. The sixth form is experiencing growth in enrollment, attributed to the school's inclusive ethos and the variety of courses available.
Leaders are dedicated to preparing students for life in modern Britain, offering a comprehensive program that includes personal, political, and philosophical studies. This program equips pupils with essential skills, including safety awareness. The school promotes creativity and diversity through various clubs and activities, such as poetry and pottery clubs, as well as community events.
The curriculum from Year 7 to Year 13 is well-structured, promoting equality and celebrating diversity. It is designed to revisit key content regularly, ensuring that students retain important knowledge. The sixth form curriculum is particularly strong, offering a wide range of academic and vocational qualifications tailored to meet student needs.
Teachers at the school possess strong subject knowledge and are passionate about their disciplines. They employ diverse teaching methods to enhance student retention of information and regularly challenge pupils to deepen their understanding. However, there are instances where activities do not align closely with individual student needs, leading to incomplete work and gaps in knowledge that are not always addressed.
Support for pupils with special educational needs is robust, with teachers equipped with detailed information to adapt lessons accordingly. Reading is prioritized, with early-stage readers receiving targeted support from trained staff.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with respect shown towards peers and teachers. Instances of unkind or discriminatory language are rare, and bullying is managed effectively. However, there has been a recent increase in fixed-term exclusions, disproportionately affecting certain groups of students. Leaders are aware of this issue and are committed to addressing it.
The school emphasizes the importance of pupils' wider development, offering sessions on online safety, healthy eating, and relationships. Feedback from students is valued, and the program is adjusted based on their input. A variety of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs, are available, and a comprehensive careers guidance program is in place, including work experience opportunities.
The governing body supports the school's commitment to equality, diversity, and creativity. Leaders have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, engaging with parents through regular forums. Staff express pride in their work environment, noting that leaders take steps to manage workload and support well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a vigilant culture established by an experienced team. Staff are trained to recognize and report concerns promptly, and collaboration with external agencies ensures the best outcomes for vulnerable pupils. Students feel safe and are educated on maintaining their safety, including online.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders should ensure that lesson activities are tailored to meet student needs and that gaps in knowledge are promptly addressed. Additionally, reducing the number of fixed-term exclusions will help ensure that all pupils have equitable access to learning opportunities.
