Maricourt Catholic High School is a supportive and nurturing environment where students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve commendable results. The school is characterized by high expectations for student behavior and learning, which is evident in the respectful relationships between staff and students. Pupils feel secure and content, with a strong culture of addressing bullying effectively. The school promotes a positive atmosphere where students are friendly, polite, and respectful of diversity, contributing to a calm environment during breaks and lessons.
The curriculum is designed to engage all students, offering a variety of extracurricular activities that foster interest and inspiration. Students participate in martial arts, dance clubs, and school productions, as well as representing the school in sports. Parental feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the school's commitment to their children's well-being and education.
Governance and leadership at Maricourt are marked by high ambitions for student success. The school offers a broad range of courses, ensuring that most students, including those with special educational needs, progress effectively through the curriculum. The curriculum is centered around the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects, with a strengthened focus on modern foreign languages, resulting in an increasing number of students opting to study these subjects.
Subject leaders have carefully structured the curriculum, ensuring that essential knowledge is taught in a logical sequence. Teachers regularly revisit learning objectives, allowing students to build on their existing knowledge. Many educators demonstrate strong subject expertise, effectively supporting students in their learning journey. However, there are instances in a few subjects where some students do not progress as well due to teachers not identifying misconceptions promptly.
The school is proactive in supporting students with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. Early readers receive specialized support to enhance their fluency, which in turn boosts their confidence and ability to engage with the curriculum. Generally, students learn with minimal disruption, although there are occasional lapses in behavior management in a small number of lessons.
The personal development curriculum equips students with essential knowledge for responsible citizenship, covering topics such as relationships, sex, and health education. Students learn about various cultures and beliefs, preparing them for life in modern Britain. The school also provides robust careers education, with many students progressing to further education and training, including university placements for sixth-form students.
Governors play an effective role in supporting school leadership, providing a clear vision for improvement and challenging leaders to enhance educational quality. Leaders are attentive to staff workload and well-being, fostering a positive working environment that staff appreciate. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance regarding student safety, including online risks. Staff are well-trained to identify when students require additional support, collaborating with external agencies to provide necessary assistance.
Overall, Maricourt Catholic High School has made significant strides since its previous inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to Good. The school is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all students receive a high-quality education in a safe and supportive environment.
