Forest Hill School, located in London, has recently undergone an inspection on December 13 and 14, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The school provides a safe and happy environment for its pupils, who achieve well academically. The curriculum is ambitious and carefully designed, extending beyond the national curriculum to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to a rich educational experience. The school enhances its curriculum with relevant educational visits, such as a trip to an old operating theatre for GCSE history students, which helps them engage with historical content in a meaningful way.
Pupils exhibit good behaviour throughout the school, demonstrating respect towards teachers and peers. They feel secure and are aware of the support available from trusted adults for any concerns they may have. The school emphasizes not only academic success but also the development of life skills, with workshops aimed at fostering responsible and kind behaviour among students. There is a strong commitment to celebrating diversity and promoting equality of opportunity, which contributes to a positive school culture.
The curriculum is broad and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively. In the sixth form, students have access to a wide range of A-level subjects and vocational qualifications, ensuring they are well-prepared for future academic or vocational pursuits. The school’s library is a key resource, promoting a culture of reading among pupils, who are encouraged to read widely. Those needing additional support in reading receive targeted assistance to help them keep pace with their peers.
Teachers at Forest Hill School demonstrate strong subject knowledge and follow consistent lesson routines, providing clear instructions that help pupils understand expectations. Pupils with special educational needs are integrated into the same curriculum as their peers, with teachers making necessary adaptations to support their learning. However, there are instances where lesson activities do not align perfectly with the intended learning outcomes, leading to gaps in knowledge for some pupils.
Behaviour in lessons and around the school is commendable, with high expectations set for pupil conduct. The school has established effective routines that minimize disruptions, allowing for a focused learning environment. Attendance rates are high, supported by robust systems to address any absences.
The school is dedicated to the holistic development of its pupils, offering a comprehensive personal, social, and health education program that addresses healthy lifestyles and relationships. From Year 7 onwards, pupils receive guidance on career pathways, with sixth-form students benefiting from detailed support for university applications and other options, including apprenticeships. A variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and creative clubs, provide opportunities for pupils to explore new interests and talents.
Governors are actively involved in the school, sharing its ambition for inclusive education and understanding its strengths and areas for improvement. The school prioritizes high-quality training for staff, ensuring they feel valued and supported in their roles. Parents and carers appreciate the school’s ethos, and there is a strong sense of pride among staff, governors, parents, and pupils alike.
The safeguarding arrangements at Forest Hill School are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to enhance teaching practices further to ensure that all activities effectively support pupils in acquiring the intended knowledge and skills, thereby addressing any existing gaps in understanding.
