Spen Valley High School, located in Liversedge, West Yorkshire, was inspected on 9 and 10 March 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent ratings of good across various categories including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has maintained its previous inspection grade of good.
Pupils thrive in a supportive environment where leaders set high expectations. The focus on fostering positive relationships among staff and students contributes to a respectful atmosphere in lessons and during social times. While most pupils exhibit good behaviour, a small number occasionally use inappropriate language. The school effectively addresses bullying, which occurs infrequently, and staff are trained to support pupils with emotional challenges. However, attendance remains a concern, particularly among vulnerable students.
In core subjects like English and mathematics, pupils demonstrate a strong retention of knowledge, although this is less evident in science. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive adequate support, thanks to a newly appointed leader who ensures staff are equipped to assist all learners. The school promotes a love of reading through innovative initiatives, such as themed reading events that encourage pupils to explore diverse genres.
While some pupils participate in extracurricular activities, the overall engagement is not as high as desired. The school offers a variety of clubs, including sports and creative writing, but there is room for improvement in this area. Leaders have a clear vision for preparing pupils for life beyond school, emphasizing the importance of understanding different cultures and modern British values. The new personal, social, and health education curriculum aids pupils in recognizing unhealthy relationships, contributing to their safety.
Behaviour management is personalized, with staff addressing issues through agreed rules and restorative practices. This approach has led to improvements in the behaviour of many pupils who previously struggled. The school emphasizes building confidence among students, which has been effective for the majority.
Professional development for staff is prioritized, with opportunities for collaboration and sharing best practices. Leaders maintain high ambitions for all pupils, including those with special educational needs, and offer a broad curriculum that includes both traditional and technical subjects. The uptake of the English Baccalaureate pathway is increasing, providing pupils with diverse options for future studies.
Despite the strengths, the school acknowledges areas for improvement. Curriculum planning varies in detail across subjects, with science identified as needing enhancement. Leaders are committed to ongoing training to strengthen curriculum delivery. Attendance issues, particularly among vulnerable pupils, require urgent attention to ensure all students benefit from learning opportunities. The careers education program is in its early stages, and leaders are working to expand extracurricular offerings and enhance career guidance.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff well-informed about pupils' welfare and local risks. Regular communication among staff ensures that concerns are promptly addressed, and appropriate checks are conducted for new staff to maintain a safe environment.
In summary, Spen Valley High School demonstrates a commitment to providing a good quality of education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. While there are areas that require further development, the school is on a positive trajectory, with leaders actively working to enhance the educational experience for all students.
