Highworth Combined School and Nursery, located in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection on February 7 and 8, 2024. The outcome of this inspection confirms that the school maintains its overall judgement of good. However, the evidence gathered during the inspection suggests that the school could potentially achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were conducted at this time. The next inspection is expected to be a graded one.
The school is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils achieve high standards. Pupils respond positively to the encouragement and high expectations set by the staff, embodying the school’s values of curiosity, achievement, resilience, and relationships. This is reflected in their eagerness to learn, their commitment to doing their best, and their ability to work collaboratively with peers. The recognition of their efforts through systems like House Points and Green Cards fosters a sense of pride among students.
The school community is described as warm and supportive, with pupils actively helping new arrivals to make friends. Year 5 Peer Mentors are available during playtime to provide support to those in need. Opportunities for collaboration across different year groups, such as reading events where older pupils read to younger ones, enhance the sense of community and cooperation. Pupils also engage enthusiastically in various extracurricular activities, including sports competitions and fundraising for charities, demonstrating their commitment to collective efforts.
The curriculum at Highworth Combined School is ambitious and broad, designed to support all pupils in developing secure subject knowledge. Teachers utilize their strong subject knowledge to provide clear explanations and check for understanding, ensuring that pupils can complete tasks to a high standard. The focus on vocabulary helps pupils articulate their knowledge effectively, and previous learning is revisited regularly to reinforce retention.
Reading is integrated throughout the curriculum, with daily storytime and diverse reading lessons that enhance pupils' understanding of characters and themes. The school prioritizes early reading, employing a structured phonics program that begins in Reception. Progress is closely monitored, allowing for timely interventions for those who struggle.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Teachers make appropriate adaptations to ensure these pupils can access the same challenging work as their peers. This includes high-quality targeted support for those with more complex needs, enabling them to develop essential skills for mainstream learning.
Pupils exhibit a strong desire to learn, arriving punctually and settling quickly into lessons. Their behavior is exemplary, both in the classroom and around the school, reflecting a culture of respect and consideration. During indoor playtimes, pupils engage in calm activities, demonstrating their ability to self-regulate.
The school emphasizes the importance of pupils' wider development, preparing them for life beyond Highworth. They learn about diverse cultures within their community, fostering empathy and understanding. Pupils actively participate in school governance through discussions and leadership roles, and they explore new interests through various extracurricular activities.
Staff at the school appreciate the thoughtful approach to workload management and well-being measures, which allow them to focus on teaching. Governors possess a strong understanding of the school and provide effective support and challenge. The arrangements for safeguarding are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Highworth Combined School and Nursery demonstrates a commitment to high standards of education and pupil well-being, with a strong foundation for future success.
