Cardinal Langley Roman Catholic High School is recognized as a good school, providing a supportive and engaging environment for its pupils. The school fosters a sense of community where students feel happy and eager to attend. High expectations set by the leadership for both academic performance and behavior are met by the students, who achieve well across various subjects. The school promotes a culture of respect and kindness, with pupils treating each other well regardless of their backgrounds. They express confidence in the school's ability to address any incidents of bullying, contributing to a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
Pupils have a significant role in the school's operations, feeling that their voices are heard and valued by the leadership. The sixth form students actively participate in school life, taking pride in their contributions, such as mentoring younger pupils. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including drama, music, and sports, encouraging all students, including those with special educational needs, to engage in these opportunities.
The leadership team is dedicated to addressing social disadvantage and ensuring that all pupils receive a strong educational foundation. The curriculum is designed to build on prior knowledge and is ambitious in its scope. However, there are areas within the key stage three curriculum that require further refinement to ensure that essential skills are clearly defined and taught. Leaders encourage pupils to pursue subjects that contribute to the English Baccalaureate, and subject leaders effectively communicate the key knowledge that students should acquire.
Teachers demonstrate a solid understanding of their subjects and typically check for gaps in students' knowledge during lessons. They adapt their teaching strategies based on assessment information, although some teachers may not address misconceptions quickly enough, which can hinder student progress. The school has implemented additional reading time to support pupils who may be falling behind, and there are effective systems in place to assist those with special educational needs.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior during lessons and social times, allowing teachers to focus on delivering the curriculum without disruptions. The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is well-structured, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and the importance of democracy. The school provides a variety of cultural experiences to prepare students for life in modern Britain, and sixth form students engage actively in school activities, promoting equalities and supporting younger peers.
Careers guidance is well-established, ensuring that all pupils transition to appropriate and high-quality destinations after their time at the school. The governing body effectively holds leaders accountable for the quality of education, and staff feel respected and supported, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff regarding pupils' well-being. Leaders work with external partners to provide necessary support for pupils and their families. The curriculum includes lessons on safety, including online safety and peer-on-peer abuse.
To improve, the school should focus on refining the curriculum in certain subjects to ensure clarity regarding essential skills. Additionally, enhancing the use of assessment information to address misconceptions more promptly will further strengthen pupil learning. Overall, Cardinal Langley Roman Catholic High School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to the development and well-being of its students.
