Queensbridge School, located in Moseley, Birmingham, underwent an inspection on 17 and 18 October 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has a history of high performance, having been rated Outstanding in its last inspection ten years ago. The current inspection reflects the school's adherence to the latest educational standards and acknowledges the changes that have occurred since the previous evaluation.
Pupils express pride in attending Queensbridge, appreciating the quality of education and the support they receive for their post-16 choices. The school fosters an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity, and students are aware of the high expectations set for them both personally and academically. Behaviour in lessons is commendable, with students demonstrating a strong desire to succeed, leading to impressive academic outcomes. The core value of respect is emphasized, although a small number of pupils struggle to embody this principle, impacting the sense of belonging for some students.
The school offers numerous opportunities for personal development, with pupils valuing the increased avenues for contributing to school improvement. A wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, performing arts, photography, and chess, is available, with many students participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. Parents and carers commend the well-rounded education their children receive.
Recent leadership changes have led to significant improvements in the school's performance. Leaders have accurately assessed the school's strengths and weaknesses, implementing initiatives that enhance educational provision. Most pupils achieve strong outcomes at the end of key stage four, and the school has introduced effective methods for monitoring progress in key stage three. The number of pupils completing the English Baccalaureate is gradually increasing.
Queensbridge prides itself on offering a broad curriculum, including creative subjects like dance and drama. However, the allocation of time to various subjects has resulted in some being prioritized over others, affecting the depth of learning in certain areas. The curriculum is well-structured, with recent changes in subjects like French and science aiding in the development of students' knowledge over time. Teachers utilize their subject expertise to facilitate understanding, and regular assessments help address any learning gaps.
Reading is encouraged, with the school library being a vibrant resource. Support is provided for pupils who struggle with reading, and efforts are underway to enhance reading across the curriculum. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their needs are identified and met, leading to strong outcomes.
Behavioural expectations have been clarified, and the school employs fair disciplinary measures. The school promotes important life skills and awareness of global issues through various programs, preparing pupils for future success. Governors maintain a clear vision for the school, providing support and ensuring responsibilities are met, which has positively impacted staff workload and well-being.
While the school has many strengths, it must address the uneven depth of subject study and ensure all pupils feel valued and respected. The curriculum design should support comprehensive learning across all subjects, and the school should work to foster a culture of respect among all students. Overall, Queensbridge School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
