Holly Lodge Girls’ College, located in West Derby, Liverpool, has received a positive inspection report, highlighting its commitment to providing a good quality of education. The school fosters a friendly and welcoming environment where pupils are encouraged to make positive choices in their behavior. This has resulted in infrequent incidents of poor behavior, with students demonstrating good conduct in lessons and enjoying their time with peers. The school celebrates its diverse community through events like Culture Day, which enhances students' sense of belonging.
Pupils feel safe and supported due to a strong pastoral system that prioritizes their well-being. They are confident in seeking help from staff, who address any bullying incidents promptly and effectively. The school sets high expectations for all students, and many meet these standards, as evidenced by the GCSE results in 2023, which were on par with national averages. Positive relationships between pupils and teachers contribute to a supportive learning environment, where additional help is provided to those who need it.
The curriculum at Holly Lodge is ambitious and aligns with the school’s motto of expecting achievement. A strong emphasis is placed on the English Baccalaureate subjects, encouraging pupils to aim high. The sixth form offers a broad range of subjects, with vocational courses yielding particularly good results. The school has carefully structured its curriculum to ensure that essential knowledge and vocabulary are taught coherently, allowing pupils to tackle increasingly complex tasks over time.
While the school excels in many areas, it has identified the need to improve the time allocated to physical education and personal, social, and health education in Years 10 and 11. This reduction in time limits pupils' ability to develop crucial skills and knowledge for making healthy choices in adulthood. Additionally, the school recognizes the need to address barriers that prevent some pupils from participating in extracurricular activities, which would enhance their personal development.
Teachers at Holly Lodge are well-trained and possess strong subject knowledge, employing effective strategies for curriculum delivery. They regularly assess pupils' understanding and provide support to help them catch up when necessary. The school prioritizes reading, systematically identifying pupils who need additional help and promoting a love of reading through engaging activities.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring that pupils are protected and their interests are prioritized. Attendance is a focus area, with staff working diligently to improve rates, particularly for specific groups of pupils. The school provides effective careers education and guidance, helping students make informed decisions about their futures.
Overall, Holly Lodge Girls’ College demonstrates a strong commitment to education, personal development, and student well-being. While there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the allocation of time for certain subjects and participation in extracurricular activities, the school is well-positioned to continue fostering a positive and enriching environment for its pupils. The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that all students achieve their potential and are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
