Edward Peake CofE VC Middle School, located in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, underwent an inspection on May 24 and 25, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas of education quality, leadership, and management also marked as needing enhancement. However, the school demonstrated good standards in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development.
Pupils at Edward Peake enjoy their school experience, feeling safe and supported by teachers who prioritize their well-being. They show enthusiasm for their subjects and a love for reading. Despite this positive environment, some students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) do not receive the tailored support necessary for their learning. Most pupils exhibit respectful behavior towards peers and adults, although a small number occasionally struggle with making appropriate behavior choices. Teachers actively assist these pupils in improving their behavior, and the majority of students believe that bullying is infrequent, trusting that teachers effectively address any incidents.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to engage in clubs and community support initiatives. This involvement helps students develop leadership skills and fosters positive relationships. The school promotes kindness and empathy, encouraging respect for diversity and welcoming new students.
Leaders have crafted an ambitious curriculum aimed at broadening pupils' understanding of the world. Teachers generally present knowledge in a structured manner, breaking it down into manageable segments that build on prior learning. This approach helps most pupils progress as they advance through their education. However, a minority of teachers lack the necessary subject knowledge to maximize learning in certain areas, leading to repeated errors and misunderstandings among pupils. Some students also miss opportunities to tackle more challenging tasks. Leaders are aware of these issues and are working to enhance teachers' understanding of effective teaching strategies.
A significant concern is the inadequate identification of the needs of some pupils with SEND. Consequently, teachers may not be equipped to provide the appropriate support for these students, hindering their learning progress. Leaders must ensure that all pupils' needs are clearly identified and communicated to staff, enabling them to implement effective strategies for supporting SEND students.
The school fosters a caring ethos, encapsulated in its motto of live, love, and learn. Pupils benefit from a rich array of extracurricular opportunities that promote skill development and teamwork. They participate in meaningful trips that enhance their learning experiences.
Leaders have made strides in cultivating a positive culture around behavior management, implementing initiatives like the Hive to help pupils reflect on their actions and understand their impact on others. While most staff embrace this approach, some remain less supportive, indicating a need for ongoing development in this area.
Governors are actively involved in holding leaders accountable for various aspects of school life, including curriculum and safeguarding. However, they have not thoroughly monitored the provision for pupils with additional needs, which has resulted in some SEND students not achieving their full potential. Parents have mixed perceptions of the school, with some expressing appreciation for the support provided, while others feel less convinced. Leaders recognize the need for improved communication with parents to enhance their understanding of school operations and decisions.
The safeguarding arrangements at Edward Peake are effective, with staff receiving regular training to ensure they can identify and report concerns regarding pupil welfare. The school maintains rigorous checks on new staff to ensure their suitability for working with children. Overall, while the school has strengths in various areas, significant improvements are necessary to better support all pupils, particularly those with SEND, and to enhance communication with parents.
