St Angela’s Ursuline School, located in Forest Gate, London, has been recognized for its outstanding overall effectiveness during the inspection conducted on November 8 and 9, 2022. The school has maintained this high standard since its last inspection in March 2009, which also rated it as outstanding. The inspection report highlights the exceptional quality of education provided, the exemplary behavior and attitudes of pupils, and the strong leadership and management within the school. The sixth-form provision is also rated as outstanding.
Pupils at St Angela’s develop a strong sense of community, with older students actively supporting the personal and academic growth of younger peers. The school fosters a culture of celebration, recognizing the achievements of students and encouraging hard work. Leaders set high expectations for all pupils, ensuring that the well-structured curriculum promotes a deep understanding of the subjects studied. Teachers are noted for their expertise, effectively challenging and supporting students to help them thrive.
The behavior of pupils reflects the high standards set by the school, with mutual respect evident among students and staff. Reports from pupils and parents indicate that bullying is rare, and any issues that arise are promptly addressed by school leaders, contributing to a safe and happy environment for all. The school’s Rise Up curriculum days provide opportunities for pupils to engage in workshops that cover important topics such as equalities, relationships, and financial literacy, further supporting their personal development.
St Angela’s is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to a broad and ambitious curriculum. Pupils demonstrate a strong commitment to their learning, utilizing class time effectively and taking pride in their work. The curriculum is designed to help students make connections between different areas of knowledge, with a focus on relevance and engagement. For instance, English lessons incorporate diverse texts that reflect the cultural richness of the school community.
Teachers employ effective assessment strategies to monitor pupil progress, adapting their teaching to address any gaps in knowledge. This approach ensures that pupils understand what they need to do to improve. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with initiatives in place to support weaker readers and promote reading fluency among all students.
Leaders prioritize the needs of every pupil, ensuring that those with special educational needs receive tailored support. The school offers a variety of enrichment activities, encouraging all pupils to take on leadership roles and participate in school governance. Educational visits and career guidance are integral to the school’s approach, providing pupils with valuable experiences and information to inform their future choices.
Staff development is also a priority, with opportunities for professional growth and consideration of workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements at St Angela’s are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupils. The school has adapted its personal development curriculum to address mental health challenges that have emerged since the pandemic, ensuring that pupils receive the support they need.
Overall, St Angela’s Ursuline School exemplifies excellence in education, fostering a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally. The commitment to high standards, community support, and comprehensive development programs positions the school as a leader in educational excellence.
