St John Bosco Arts College, located in Croxteth, Merseyside, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on December 7 and 8, 2021. The school provides a calm and welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel safe and valued. Students express satisfaction with their educational experience, highlighting the strong relationships they have with staff and the high expectations set for their learning. The quality of education is deemed good, with pupils achieving well across various subjects due to the effective teaching methods employed by knowledgeable educators.
The curriculum is well-planned and ambitious, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those in the sixth form who have access to a range of academic and technical courses. Leaders have established clear objectives for what pupils should learn, ensuring that the knowledge is sequenced effectively to enhance retention and understanding. However, there are some subjects where the essential knowledge has not been fully identified, which can hinder the implementation of the curriculum and affect pupil achievement.
Teachers are well-prepared and regularly check for understanding, addressing any gaps in knowledge. The school promotes a culture of hard work and respect, with pupils demonstrating good behavior and cooperation in class. The school has also recognized that some younger pupils struggle with reading, and additional support is provided to help them catch up. This includes expert readers who engage pupils with books, fostering a love for reading and improving literacy skills.
Personal development is a key focus at St John Bosco Arts College, with a broad program that includes education on mental health, relationships, and diversity. Pupils are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, which help develop their social skills and character. The school emphasizes the importance of volunteering and charity work, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a knowledgeable team ensuring that all staff are trained to recognize and respond to any concerns regarding pupil welfare. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support and teaches pupils about maintaining healthy relationships and online safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that all curriculum plans clearly outline the essential knowledge required for each subject, particularly in the sixth form. Additionally, the implementation of the new reading strategy must be fully realized to address the reading gaps among younger pupils, enabling them to achieve their full potential across all subjects.
Overall, St John Bosco Arts College is a supportive and effective educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils. The commitment of the staff and leadership to continuous improvement is evident, and with targeted efforts in identified areas, the school can further enhance its educational offerings and outcomes for all students.
