The Willink School, located in Burghfield Common, Reading, Berkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 4 and 5, 2023. The school prides itself on a highly ambitious curriculum that offers a broad range of subjects, fostering a sense of pride among its pupils. The school's vision, Village School, Global Outlook, resonates with both staff and students, contributing to a positive learning environment where pupils typically enjoy their education and achieve commendable results. Parents have expressed their satisfaction, highlighting the school's ability to inspire children and provide numerous opportunities for growth.
Pupils at The Willink School benefit from exceptional pastoral care and coordinated support, ensuring that they are recognized as individuals. The staff collaborates effectively to raise aspirations and help students reach their goals. The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, including clubs, trips, and visiting speakers, which enhance the learning experience. Students particularly enjoy the performing arts and sports opportunities available to them.
The school maintains a calm and courteous atmosphere, underpinned by positive relationships among pupils and staff. The behavior of students is generally good, with a clear understanding of the school's behavior system. Instances of unkindness are rare, and pupils feel comfortable approaching adults with any concerns. Sixth-form students take pride in their roles supporting younger peers, further fostering a sense of community within the school.
The Willink School is dedicated to ensuring success for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and disadvantaged backgrounds. The curriculum is well-structured, building knowledge and skills progressively from Year 7 to Year 13. Teachers are generally effective in adapting their teaching to meet the diverse needs of students, although there is a recognized need for further training to address gaps in knowledge for disadvantaged pupils.
The curriculum's ambition and breadth are commendable, with nearly all pupils pursuing the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. All students are required to study religious education and at least one modern foreign language at GCSE. The school also offers vocational courses in key stage 4 and the sixth form, preparing students well for their future educational or employment pathways.
While teachers generally maintain high expectations, there are occasional lapses in engagement, leading to some pupils becoming distracted. The school has systems in place to monitor reading skills, with trained staff providing tailored support to enhance pupils' reading abilities. The emphasis on developing reading skills is a priority, ensuring that all students, including those with SEND and disadvantaged backgrounds, have access to a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom.
The provision for personal development is exemplary, with students learning about positive relationships, tolerance, and safety. The school's ethos is reflected in its well-organized personal, social, health, and economic (PSHE) curriculum, assemblies, and subject areas, promoting respect for diverse cultures and beliefs.
Leaders and governors are mindful of staff workload and involve them in decision-making processes, ensuring that teachers receive adequate support. The safeguarding arrangements at The Willink School are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment.
To improve further, the school should refine its approaches to assessing the prior knowledge of disadvantaged pupils to ensure they receive appropriate tasks and opportunities. Consistency in the implementation of the planned curriculum is also necessary to challenge all pupils effectively and enhance their engagement in learning.
