Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School is a vibrant learning community located in Liverpool, Merseyside. The school has recently undergone an inspection, which took place on 28 and 29 September 2021, and has been rated as good overall. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, as well as sixth-form provision have all been assessed as good, with behavior and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. This marks a significant improvement from the previous inspection, where the school was rated as requiring improvement.
The school fosters an environment where pupils show great respect for one another, and teachers play a crucial role in helping students articulate their thoughts on various issues. Feedback from pupils indicates that they feel happy and safe at school, with high attendance rates reflecting their enjoyment of the educational experience. The staff's commitment to addressing any concerns raised by students contributes to a supportive atmosphere.
Leaders at Cardinal Heenan have established high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in exceptional conduct both in lessons and throughout the school. Pupils are noted for their politeness and courtesy, and the relationships between staff and students are characterized by warmth and support. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards derogatory behavior, and incidents of bullying are reported to be extremely rare, with prompt and effective responses from teachers when issues arise.
The curriculum at Cardinal Heenan is ambitious and diverse, allowing pupils to study a wide range of subjects. Leaders have implemented a curriculum that challenges all students, and most pupils achieve well academically. Opportunities for personal growth are abundant, with various clubs and sports available to broaden pupils' horizons and deepen their understanding of the world.
While the school has made significant strides in many areas, there are still opportunities for improvement. Some subject leaders are new to their roles or lack the necessary experience to effectively evaluate the quality of education in their subjects. This can hinder their ability to identify strengths and weaknesses and promote further improvements. Senior leaders are encouraged to provide appropriate training and support to ensure that all subject leaders can successfully monitor and enhance the curriculum.
The school has established a strong safeguarding culture, with effective arrangements in place to identify and support pupils in need. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of neglect or abuse and take proactive measures to protect students from harm. Pupils are aware of where to seek help, contributing to a safe and secure environment.
Overall, Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School demonstrates a commitment to fostering a positive educational experience for its pupils. The leadership team has a clear vision for the school and has made significant improvements since the last inspection. The supportive atmosphere, high expectations for behavior, and ambitious curriculum contribute to a thriving learning environment where pupils can flourish academically and personally. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, with many expressing their satisfaction with the education provided. As the school continues to build on its successes, it remains focused on ensuring that all pupils receive the highest quality of education and support.
