High Wycombe Church of England Combined School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 25 and 26, 2023. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of belonging among its pupils. Students report feeling happy and safe, with instances of bullying being rare. The school promotes an environment where pupils can express their concerns to any adult, ensuring they receive the necessary support.
Classrooms at the school are calm and conducive to learning, with pupils demonstrating respect and good behavior during lessons. They show enthusiasm for their studies and respond positively to the high expectations set by their teachers, which contributes to their academic success. The school offers memorable learning experiences through various trips and opportunities for performances in assemblies and local venues.
Pupils are encouraged to engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs focused on science, art, and creative writing, as well as football sessions provided by Wycombe Wanderers Football Club. These activities help students develop new skills and explore their interests. The school also promotes leadership opportunities, with pupils taking on roles such as school councillors, peer mentors, and sports captains, which fosters a sense of responsibility and value among them.
The leadership team has maintained a high quality of education since the last inspection, addressing challenges such as short-term staff changes that affected pupil outcomes in the summer of 2022. The curriculum is broad and engaging, designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there are areas where assessment practices need further development to better identify gaps in pupils' knowledge.
The school places a strong emphasis on phonics and reading, with a well-established phonics program in place. Pupils in Reception and Key Stage 1 engage in daily phonics lessons, which help them build their reading skills. Older students continue to enjoy reading and participate in initiatives that promote a love for literature, such as being 'Reading Champions' who help run the library and organize reading competitions.
Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and provide a variety of resources and activities to support learning. They are adept at identifying pupils' additional needs and making necessary adjustments to ensure all students can access the curriculum effectively. The school also prioritizes the wider development of pupils, teaching them about different cultures and the importance of kindness and respect.
Governors play an active role in supporting the school, demonstrating knowledge and enthusiasm for its future. They are committed to considering staff well-being in decision-making processes, contributing to a positive working environment.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a culture of openness and responsibility among staff. Regular training ensures that all staff are equipped to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns. The curriculum also includes lessons on managing risk, helping pupils understand how to stay safe both online and in their daily lives.
While the school has many strengths, it is essential for leaders to enhance assessment practices in certain foundation subjects to ensure that all pupils can learn and retain knowledge effectively. Overall, High Wycombe Church of England Combined School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
