The Deanery Church of England High School and Sixth Form College in Wigan, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 18 and 19, 2022. The school is committed to fostering a supportive environment where pupils feel valued and cared for by the staff. This nurturing atmosphere allows students to thrive both academically and personally. The school promotes respect and kindness among pupils, regardless of their backgrounds, which contributes to a positive school culture.
Pupils express a strong sense of safety and happiness while attending the school. They appreciate the proactive approach of the leadership in addressing any incidents of bullying, ensuring that concerns are handled swiftly and sensitively. The high expectations set by leaders and staff for both behavior and learning are met by the pupils, who demonstrate diligence and a commitment to their studies. The school environment is described as calm, even during busy times like lunchtime.
The curriculum at The Deanery is well-structured and ambitious, catering for the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, including music and sports clubs, which encourage pupils to engage with their local community through initiatives like The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. This holistic approach to education helps pupils develop a well-rounded skill set.
Leaders and governors are dedicated to providing the best possible educational experience for all students. Since the last inspection, improvements have been made to the curriculum, which now includes a broader range of subjects. The increase in pupils opting to study modern foreign languages has positively impacted the overall academic performance, particularly in relation to the English Baccalaureate.
While the majority of subjects have a clear curriculum framework, some areas are still in the process of refinement. Leaders are focused on ensuring that teachers are well-informed about the essential knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire. This systematic approach to curriculum development is crucial for building pupils' knowledge progressively across all key stages.
Teachers are generally effective in assessing pupils' understanding and adapting their teaching accordingly. However, there are instances where some teachers do not check for understanding thoroughly enough, which can lead to gaps in knowledge for some pupils. Addressing this issue is essential for ensuring that all pupils have a solid grasp of the curriculum before moving on to new content.
The school has also taken steps to support pupils who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in terms of reading fluency and accuracy. Additional resources and time have been allocated to help these pupils catch up effectively.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior both in lessons and during social interactions, contributing to a conducive learning environment. Attendance rates are high, and students arrive punctually, demonstrating their commitment to their education. The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is delivered effectively, equipping pupils with essential life skills and knowledge about healthy relationships.
The sixth form students play an active role in the school community, supporting younger pupils and preparing themselves for future endeavors. The structured careers education program ensures that all pupils are well-informed about their options after school, whether in further education, employment, or training.
Governors maintain a strong oversight of the school's performance, holding leaders accountable for their improvement efforts while being mindful of staff well-being. The school is regarded as a positive workplace, with staff feeling valued and proud to be part of the community. Overall, The Deanery Church of England High School and Sixth Form College continues to provide a good educational experience, with clear areas for ongoing development to enhance the learning journey for all pupils.
