Underhill School, located in Barnet, Hertfordshire, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on February 8 and 9, 2023, and the school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, while personal development was rated as outstanding.
Pupils at Underhill School are reported to be happy and feel safe. The school fosters a nurturing environment where the care of pupils is prioritized. Incidents of bullying are not tolerated, and any occurrences are addressed promptly. Pupils trust the staff and feel comfortable seeking help when needed. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, allowing pupils to deepen their knowledge and understanding across various subjects, preparing them well for future educational stages.
The school promotes its core values through the ‘Underhill Way,’ which emphasizes understanding, uplifting, and uniting. This approach, along with the motto ‘I can, you can, we can,’ aims to cultivate resilience and character strength among pupils. Clear routines and expectations contribute to positive behavior, and pupils take pride in their school community, actively engaging in various responsibilities such as school councillors and house captains. The curriculum also includes lessons on democracy and prepares pupils for life in modern Britain.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require attention. The curriculum is well-structured, with key knowledge and vocabulary identified for all subjects. However, in some subjects, the oversight of the curriculum is not as strong, leading to inconsistencies in understanding how well pupils are learning. Leaders need to ensure that subject leaders receive adequate support to refine the curriculum and assessment practices, enabling pupils to develop a deeper knowledge base.
Reading is a significant focus at Underhill School, with pupils demonstrating enthusiasm for books and reading activities. Staff are well-trained in delivering phonics programs, and those at risk of falling behind are quickly identified and supported. The school creates a calm and purposeful atmosphere, promoting positive attitudes towards learning. Attendance is monitored effectively, contributing to ongoing improvements.
The provision for personal development is exceptional, with a variety of enrichment activities available to pupils. These activities, which include sports and creative pursuits, are well-received and contribute to a well-rounded education. The curriculum addresses important topics such as equality and diversity, allowing pupils to engage in discussions about ethical issues. The school collaborates with an on-site children’s center to provide timely support to families.
Leaders at Underhill School have established a culture of high expectations, and staff express positive sentiments regarding their well-being and the support they receive. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns. The curriculum includes lessons on safety, covering topics such as online safety and consent.
In summary, Underhill School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. Continued focus on refining the curriculum and supporting subject leaders will further enhance the learning experience for all students.
