Fortismere School, located in Muswell Hill, London, was inspected in April and September 2022, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a strong reputation for providing a high-quality education, with leaders implementing an ambitious curriculum that sets high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are reported to work diligently and perform well in public examinations, demonstrating the effectiveness of the educational strategies in place.
The school environment is generally safe, and pupils exhibit good behavior in class. However, during transitions between lessons, the atmosphere can become noisy and crowded, with some reports of inappropriate language among students. Despite this, pupils feel confident that staff will address any issues related to bullying or derogatory language promptly. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, which are well-received by students. The personal, social, and health education program is comprehensive, teaching pupils about respect, safety, and healthy relationships.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Leaders ensure that all pupils, including disadvantaged students, have access to a broad curriculum in the early years. However, some teachers do not consistently check pupils' understanding before introducing new content, which can lead to gaps in knowledge. This issue is particularly evident in the transition from Years 9 to 10, where pupils select their GCSE subjects. Although a significant number choose to study modern foreign languages and humanities, the lack of consistent assessment can hinder their learning progression.
In the sixth form, students are encouraged to become independent learners, and teachers tailor their approaches to meet individual needs. This personalized attention helps students develop a deep understanding of their subjects. The school has established a culture of reading, with a well-stocked library and regular reading opportunities in class. Leaders actively identify pupils who need additional support with reading and provide effective interventions to help them catch up.
The school has made strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs, with tailored adaptations in most classes. However, the implementation of the revised behavior policy has been inconsistent, leading to occasional disruptions in learning. Leaders are aware of this and are working to ensure that all staff apply the policy uniformly.
The co-headteachers have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, collaborating with governors to prioritize key initiatives. Safeguarding measures are effective, with systems in place to identify and support pupils at risk. Staff receive regular training to ensure they are equipped to handle safeguarding concerns appropriately.
Overall, Fortismere School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education, with strong leadership and a supportive learning environment. While there are areas that need attention, particularly in terms of consistent teaching practices and behavior management, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory. The inspection highlights the importance of ongoing development and the need for all staff to align with the school's high expectations to ensure every pupil can thrive academically and personally.
