Cressex Community School, located in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 27 and 28, 2024. The school is highly valued by pupils and their families, who appreciate the efforts of the staff to enhance the life chances of every student. Pupils actively participate in the school community and feel well represented through the pupil voice group, which has influenced various aspects of school life, including classroom routines.
Students demonstrate a clear understanding of the school's expectations regarding conduct and behavior, which are rooted in values that promote responsibility and respect. The multicultural environment of the school is celebrated by pupils, who enjoy forming friendships with a diverse group of peers and take pride in the inclusive atmosphere. When concerns arise, students know whom to approach for support, ensuring they receive the necessary help.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes toward their learning and are ambitious about their futures. The school effectively links current learning to future educational and career opportunities, and students value extracurricular activities that broaden their understanding of the world.
Leadership at Cressex Community School is ambitious for the future of its pupils. The curriculum is well-organized across most subjects, allowing students to acquire essential knowledge over time. Staff have identified key role models in various fields, which inspires pupils and helps them see themselves in these figures. While the curriculum is strong in many areas, some subjects require further development, and leaders have prioritized this work to ensure comprehensive learning across the curriculum.
At key stage four, pupils have access to a variety of courses, but the number of students pursuing a GCSE in a modern foreign language remains low. Leaders are actively working to increase participation in these subjects to encourage a broader range of ambitious studies as part of the English Baccalaureate.
Lessons at Cressex Community School are calm and focused, with teachers employing targeted questioning to assess understanding. Pupils are taught to utilize structured feedback effectively, participating willingly in activities that reinforce their knowledge. The planning of lesson activities supports all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs, ensuring they achieve well.
Reading and oracy are prioritized across the curriculum, with a focus on the correct use of technical vocabulary. This emphasis enables pupils to articulate their thoughts clearly. Additional support is provided for those who need help with reading fluency, and ongoing development aims to enhance support for weaker readers.
The small sixth form offers a tailored curriculum for students who may otherwise leave education, helping to build their confidence and ambition. Many of these students successfully transition to higher education or training, improving their future prospects.
Behavior in the school is orderly, with pupils showing politeness and respect towards one another and staff. They support each other and view their participation in the school as a privilege, contributing to a culture of mutual success. The school prioritizes the wider development of pupils, equipping them with skills and attitudes necessary for future success. Attendance has improved, with the school linking it to safeguarding and academic performance, ensuring families understand its importance.
The safeguarding arrangements at Cressex Community School are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in increasing the number of pupils studying modern foreign languages and further developing the curriculum in certain subjects. The school is committed to addressing these areas to enhance the educational experience for all students.
