Ilford County High School, located in Barkingside, Ilford, Essex, was inspected on 21 and 22 September 2021. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of good, reflecting its commitment to providing quality education. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision were all rated as good. This inspection marked the first routine evaluation since the school was last inspected 14 years ago, when it was rated outstanding.
The school fosters a positive environment where pupils work hard and achieve well. They appreciate the cultural diversity within the school and engage in various extracurricular activities. Teachers encourage independent thinking, prompting students to debate complex issues, including current affairs. Pupils are set high academic targets and are supported in maintaining their physical and mental well-being. The school emphasizes the importance of mental health, with teachers frequently discussing well-being and providing support for any concerns.
While bullying is infrequent, the school has effective measures in place to address it when it occurs. Pupils generally exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, showing respect towards teachers and visitors. However, there are instances where motivation levels may dip, particularly when the curriculum is perceived as less challenging.
In the sixth form, students receive strong support for their future aspirations, including university applications. Many aim for prestigious institutions, and teachers assist them in crafting personal statements. The school has made strides in enhancing its curriculum, particularly in subjects like science, mathematics, geography, and physical education, where the curriculum is well-structured and promotes deep learning.
Despite these strengths, the school recognizes areas for improvement. While the curriculum in key stage three meets national standards, some subjects, particularly in the arts, lack depth in learning experiences. For instance, music students do not have enough opportunities for performance or critical engagement with a diverse musical repertoire. The school aims to refine its curriculum to ensure that all subjects provide rich and engaging learning experiences.
Teachers are committed to fostering independence in learning, especially in the sixth form, where students are expected to prepare for lessons. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their work, which aids in identifying strengths and areas for improvement. The provision for students with special educational needs and disabilities is robust, with tailored support in place to meet individual needs.
The personal development curriculum is comprehensive, covering essential topics such as mutual tolerance, gender identity, and careers education. The school provides valuable information about vocational qualifications and apprenticeships, preparing students for future opportunities. While there is a reasonable range of extracurricular activities, the school acknowledges the need to expand these offerings to nurture students' talents and interests further.
Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders considering workload and implementing measures to reduce it. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and updates on relevant issues. Pupils are aware of local safeguarding risks and are equipped with knowledge to keep themselves safe.
In summary, Ilford County High School demonstrates a strong commitment to academic excellence and personal development. While it has received a good rating, there are opportunities for further enhancement, particularly in the depth of the curriculum in certain subjects and the expansion of extracurricular activities. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths and address areas for improvement to continue providing a high-quality education for its pupils.
