Old Swinford Hospital is a secondary comprehensive school located in Stourbridge, West Midlands. The school has been recognized as a good institution following its inspection on January 25 and 26, 2022. The environment at Old Swinford Hospital is characterized by a strong sense of community where pupils learn, live, and thrive together. The behavior of the students is commendable; they are polite, respectful, and dedicated to their studies. The expectations set by the staff encourage pupils to work hard and strive for their best. In lessons, students engage actively, listening attentively to their teachers and collaborating effectively with their peers. The academic and broader educational experiences provided at the school prepare students well for life beyond their school years.
The relationships between staff and pupils are positive, with new students receiving a warm welcome. The school has made efforts to ensure that Year 7 girls who joined in September 2021 have successfully integrated into the school community. The school prides itself on the care it provides, and pupils express that bullying is rarely an issue, with confidence that staff will address any concerns promptly. Parents echo these sentiments, highlighting the supportive and nurturing environment fostered by the teachers and staff.
Old Swinford Hospital places significant emphasis on extracurricular activities, offering a wide range of options for pupils to engage in outside of the classroom. Most students participate in these activities, which they find enjoyable and valuable. The leadership at the school is characterized by integrity and clarity, with staff motivated by a shared goal of helping pupils become the best versions of themselves. High academic expectations are coupled with a commitment to fostering personal growth among students.
The curriculum is well-organized, meeting the needs and aspirations of pupils. Students have the opportunity to study a diverse range of academic courses at key stage 4. However, there is a noted concern regarding the low number of pupils achieving qualifications that contribute to the English Baccalaureate, primarily due to a limited number of students studying modern foreign languages. The school has taken steps to address this by increasing the time allocated to Mandarin and French at key stage 3, although the impact of these changes is yet to be fully realized at key stage 4.
Curriculum development is a priority for school leaders, who have carefully considered the sequence in which new knowledge is introduced. This thoughtful approach allows pupils to build on prior learning effectively. Teachers are knowledgeable in their subjects and adept at crafting explanations that resonate with students. However, inconsistencies in teaching methods across different subjects can lead to confusion for pupils as they transition between classes.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing teachers with the necessary information to assist these students effectively. Reading is highly encouraged, with staff fostering a love for literature among pupils. The school has implemented programs to enhance the profile of reading, resulting in students reading widely and confidently.
The school's efforts to promote the wider development of pupils are commendable, with a comprehensive curriculum that addresses beliefs and issues relevant to the wider world. Pupils receive quality careers education, and the school actively promotes inclusivity and challenges stereotypes. Participation in extracurricular clubs and activities is encouraged, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to engage.
Following the previous inspection, leaders have made significant improvements to the sixth form, offering a range of qualifications that support students' career pathways. The school closely monitors the quality of the curriculum and student progress, ensuring that personal development is supported through a well-planned tutor program.
The safeguarding arrangements at Old Swinford Hospital are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Leaders are aware of the need to expand the safeguarding team as the school grows to maintain a safe environment for all students. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for further improvement, particularly in ensuring that more pupils engage with modern foreign languages and that teaching methods remain consistent across subjects.
