Todmorden High School is a secondary comprehensive school located in West Yorkshire, known for its welcoming and friendly environment. The school has received a good overall effectiveness rating in its latest inspection, reflecting its commitment to providing a safe and supportive learning atmosphere for its pupils. Students express enjoyment in attending school, feeling secure and engaged in their education. The positive relationships between pupils and teachers contribute to a conducive learning environment, where students know they can seek help if needed.
The school emphasizes its core values of ambition, respect, care, and honesty, which are integrated into both academic lessons and pastoral care. These values resonate with parents and are acknowledged by pupils, who report that bullying is infrequent and effectively addressed by staff. In the classroom, pupils demonstrate good behavior and focus on their work, with teachers maintaining high expectations. The curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to meet the educational needs of students, offering a diverse range of subjects and additional topics such as Latin and art history. The school also provides numerous extracurricular activities, fostering a strong connection with the local community.
Since the previous inspection, school leaders have made significant improvements, particularly in curriculum development, which has broadened the range of subjects available to pupils. This has resulted in enhanced academic achievement, especially in core subjects like English, mathematics, and science. The school has also increased participation in the English Baccalaureate subjects, ensuring that all pupils have access to a comprehensive education. The careful planning of lessons, particularly in humanities, has led to effective learning outcomes, with pupils benefiting from strategies that reinforce their understanding of previously covered material.
Despite these strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects still exhibit variability in curriculum delivery, particularly in Year 9 science, where deeper exploration of topics is necessary to prepare students for their GCSEs. Additionally, while most teachers effectively assess pupil understanding, there are instances, particularly in mathematics, where assessment practices need refinement to provide immediate feedback and support for improvement.
The school is proactive in supporting the personal development of its pupils, with robust careers guidance that aligns with local employment opportunities. This ensures that students leave with clear plans for their future. Pupils are encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions, although they have expressed a desire for more opportunities to debate ideas in certain subjects. The school’s curriculum in ethics provides a solid foundation for understanding spiritual and moral issues, complemented by a variety of clubs and activities that promote personal growth.
Safeguarding measures at Todmorden High School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns promptly. The school collaborates with local community partners to enhance its safeguarding culture, ensuring a comprehensive approach to pupil welfare.
In summary, Todmorden High School is a well-rounded institution that excels in providing a supportive and enriching educational experience. While it has made commendable progress since its last inspection, continued focus on curriculum consistency and assessment practices will further enhance the learning outcomes for all pupils. The school’s commitment to its values and community engagement positions it as a significant contributor to the educational landscape in West Yorkshire.
