Caterham High School, located in Clayhall, Ilford, Essex, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 29 and 30, 2022. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The overall effectiveness of the school is commendable, with good ratings in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision.
Pupils at Caterham High School are part of a supportive community where staff encourage them to believe in themselves and strive for their ambitions. The school prides itself on its diversity and high aspirations for all students. Relationships among pupils and between pupils and staff are positive, contributing to a safe and enjoyable school environment. The school has established high expectations for behavior, and pupils generally respond well, maintaining a calm and orderly atmosphere throughout the school. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, school leaders address them effectively.
The leadership team, including governors, is committed to providing a high-quality education. They hold each other accountable and work collaboratively to evaluate the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff feel valued and supported, which contributes to a positive working environment. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Recent initiatives have aimed to increase the number of pupils entered for the English Baccalaureate, with additional lesson time allocated to subjects such as history, geography, and modern foreign languages.
Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and employ effective strategies to help pupils retain information and understand their learning. Feedback from teachers is constructive, enabling pupils to improve their work. In the sixth form, students engage deeply with their subjects, developing critical thinking and analytical skills. The school has also introduced a new reading strategy to enhance literacy across all year groups, although some pupils still require additional support to read fluently.
Pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons, and when low-level disruptions occur, teachers manage them consistently. The school has implemented a well-structured program for personal development, covering a range of topics such as relationships, equality, and citizenship. This program is well-received by pupils, who find it relevant to their lives. Additionally, the school provides appropriate careers education, helping students make informed decisions about their futures.
Safeguarding measures at Caterham High School are effective, with a strong culture of safety established by the leadership team. Staff receive regular training to stay informed about safeguarding risks, and they know how to report concerns promptly. The school collaborates with local authorities and organizations to ensure that pupils receive the necessary support.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to systematically identify pupils who struggle with reading fluency to ensure they receive the phonics instruction necessary for their development. Additionally, some teachers require further training to better support pupils with special educational needs in developing their writing skills.
Overall, Caterham High School has made significant strides in providing a quality education and fostering a positive environment for its pupils. The commitment of the leadership team, staff, and governors is evident in the school's achievements and the supportive community it has built. With continued focus on identified areas for improvement, the school is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings further.
