Our Lady’s RC High School in Manchester has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 3 and 4, 2021. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel safe and supported. They express confidence in the staff's ability to address any instances of bullying swiftly and effectively. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with minimal disruption to learning, and they demonstrate respect for one another across diverse backgrounds. The school’s behavior code, known as the ‘3Cs’, is appreciated by pupils for promoting fairness in behavior management.
Teachers at Our Lady’s RC High School maintain high expectations for their students, who respond by working diligently to meet these standards. The support provided by teachers is valued, contributing to the pupils' overall achievement. The school has seen a steady improvement in the number of pupils progressing to further education, employment, or training after graduation. Pupils also enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs focused on STEM and debating, which enhance their educational experience. The school has successfully organized residential trips for younger pupils, even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The leadership and governance of the school have made significant strides in improving the curriculum, particularly at key stage three, aligning it with national standards. Subject teachers utilize their expertise to deliver the curriculum effectively, and they are encouraged to reflect on teaching practices to enhance pupil learning. This has led to a well-structured curriculum that allows pupils to build on their existing knowledge, fostering a sense of pride in their work.
Leaders have a clear understanding of the quality of education provided at the school, with many subjects being well-planned and effectively delivered. Assessment practices are generally strong, enabling teachers to identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge. However, there are a few subjects where assessment strategies could be improved to better support pupil progress. The school has made commendable efforts to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their needs are accurately identified and met.
A robust reading support program is in place, helping pupils who struggle with reading to improve their skills and access the wider curriculum. All pupils participate in group reading sessions, which contribute to their confidence and fluency in reading various texts. The school promotes high attendance rates and fosters a culture of respect and healthy relationships among pupils, who understand the importance of consent and the impact of prejudice.
Teachers express pride in their work at the school, noting that leaders are considerate of their efforts. The governing body plays an active role in school leadership, bringing diverse skills to support the school community. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding evident throughout the school. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of risk and act promptly to secure necessary support for pupils and their families.
In summary, Our Lady’s RC High School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in assessment practices in a few subjects, the overall quality of education and the well-being of pupils are prioritized, contributing to the school's positive reputation within the community.
