Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Castle Business and Enterprise College on January 30, 2018, following its previous outstanding judgment in July 2013. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to provide an outstanding quality of education. The leadership team has effectively maintained high standards and has taken proactive steps to enhance the educational experience for students. The dedicated staff works collaboratively to build on the previous successes, and the school has seen an increase in student enrollment, now accommodating 140 pupils. The diversity of students' special educational needs has evolved, yet the school has upheld high expectations for all learners.
The leadership at all levels is robust, with staff appreciating the training and development opportunities provided. Teaching is characterized as outstanding, with educators carefully planning to meet the individual needs of students. Teachers and teaching assistants collaborate effectively, utilizing resources and engaging activities that foster rapid progress across various subjects. The school has successfully addressed previous areas for improvement, particularly in expanding facilities for post-16 students and enhancing course offerings, creating a more cohesive educational pathway.
The school has implemented effective strategies to improve behavior and attendance, responding well to previous concerns. Training in de-escalation techniques has led to a significant reduction in behavioral incidents and physical restraints, with no exclusions reported since the spring term of 2017. Innovative approaches to attendance have resulted in improved rates, although there remains a need to further support students who are persistently absent.
Pupils thrive in the supportive environment fostered by the school, expressing enjoyment in their lessons and feeling respected by peers and staff. They describe the school positively, highlighting the strong relationships they have with adults and each other. Parental support is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing satisfaction with the school's performance.
Governance is strong, with governors actively supporting and challenging school leaders. They are well-informed about the school's strengths and the challenges it faces, contributing to the ongoing development of the institution. Safeguarding practices are effective, with a strong culture of safety prioritized throughout the school. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
The inspection findings indicate that pupils achieve very well, with teachers adeptly tailoring tasks to meet individual learning needs. Interventions are in place for those at risk of falling behind, and the school provides a vibrant learning environment that promotes engagement and enjoyment. The curriculum is broad and balanced, preparing students for life in modern Britain while catering for their interests and needs.
Post-16 students express pride in their school and appreciate the guidance they receive regarding future education and career paths. Additional funding is utilized effectively to enhance student experiences, including sports and literacy initiatives. The school has developed its own assessment criteria to monitor progress, although further refinement is needed to track student achievement comprehensively.
Moving forward, school leaders and governors are encouraged to continue refining their progress tracking systems and to actively pursue strategies to reduce persistent absenteeism. The commitment to maintaining high standards and fostering a supportive learning environment remains evident, ensuring that all students are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
