Deptford Green School, located in New Cross, London, underwent an inspection on April 26 and 27, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as Requires Improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as Good, reflecting the positive changes implemented by the school leadership.
Pupils at Deptford Green School feel safe and well cared for, appreciating the strong relationships they have with their teachers and staff. The school fosters an environment where pupils are encouraged to aspire to high standards, supported by the school's LORIC system, which promotes skills such as leadership and communication. Students actively engage in leadership roles, including library leaders and mental health ambassadors, demonstrating their motivation to excel.
The school environment is harmonious, with pupils exhibiting good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school. Disrespectful behavior is not tolerated, and staff are proactive in addressing any incidents of bullying. Pupils also have numerous opportunities to explore their talents, particularly in the creative arts, with programs that allow them to learn musical instruments and participate in various music and drama productions.
The curriculum at Deptford Green School is broad and rich, aligning with national standards. Pupils study a wide range of subjects until the end of Year 9, with many opting for GCSE subjects that contribute to the English Baccalaureate in Year 10. However, some pupils in Years 7 to 9 do not have equal access to the full curriculum due to being withdrawn for additional support in literacy, particularly in modern foreign languages. The school provides personalized support for pupils who speak English as an additional language, ensuring they can build their language skills effectively.
Leaders promote a love of reading across the school, providing time for pupils to read widely and offering additional support for those who need it. While the focus on reading is commendable, there is a need to ensure that this does not limit access to the broader curriculum for weaker readers. Teachers are well-prepared and follow structured lesson plans that help pupils build on their knowledge over time, enabling them to tackle increasingly complex tasks.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges in recruiting and retaining staff in certain subject areas, leading to inconsistencies in curriculum delivery. Leaders are encouraged to continue supporting staff in implementing the curriculum effectively. Additionally, the school must ensure that all pupils have equal opportunities to study the full curriculum without compromising their literacy support.
The safeguarding arrangements at Deptford Green School are effective, with a well-trained safeguarding team that promptly addresses any concerns. Pupils appreciate the mental health services available to them, and the school actively promotes awareness of important issues through workshops and guest speakers.
Overall, Deptford Green School has made commendable strides in improving its educational offerings and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. The leadership team has the backing of staff, pupils, and parents, and while challenges remain, the school is on a positive trajectory towards further improvement.
