The Cottesloe School, located in Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 9 and 10, 2021. The school is committed to fostering an environment where pupils are encouraged to prepare, aspire, and succeed. This ambition is reflected in the high levels of participation in extracurricular activities, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and various clubs that promote essential skills such as cooperation, critical thinking, and creativity.
Pastoral care is a notable strength of the school, with parents expressing appreciation for the support provided to students. Pupils feel safe and supported, with access to the TEAM Hub, which offers guidance and reassurance for those facing challenges. The presence of a well-being dog, Teddy, adds to the nurturing atmosphere, and sixth-form students take on roles as well-being ambassadors, further enhancing the supportive community.
The school is characterized by a warm and friendly environment, often described as a big family. Respect and courtesy are prevalent among pupils and staff, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere. Pupils demonstrate eagerness to learn and achieve, which is evident in their behavior and engagement in lessons.
Leadership at The Cottesloe School is strong, with a clear vision for continuous improvement. The headteacher, supported by dedicated staff, fosters a sense of pride among teachers, who feel valued and supported in their roles. The collaborative spirit between pupils and staff is commendable, and there is a growing confidence among governors, who are becoming more involved in understanding the school’s strengths and areas for development.
Curriculum planning is well thought out, particularly in subjects like English, mathematics, geography, and languages, where clear learning goals are established. Teachers are skilled and knowledgeable, effectively helping pupils connect new knowledge with prior learning. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in history, where the identification of key knowledge for pupils is less clear.
While many pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) achieve well, there are instances where some teachers do not fully utilize the information provided by the special educational needs coordinator to support these pupils effectively. The school offers a varied curriculum for Years 7 to 9, preparing students well for key stage 4, with an increasing number of pupils pursuing the English Baccalaureate.
In the sixth form, students benefit from a diverse range of academic and vocational courses, receiving timely guidance about post-16 options. They are well-prepared for their future endeavors, achieving the qualifications necessary for their chosen paths. The emphasis on reading is strong, with support available for those who need it, and older students often assist younger pupils in developing their reading skills.
The school places significant importance on preparing pupils for life beyond education, with a comprehensive personal, social, and health education program that adapts to current issues. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils feel secure and supported.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school should focus on ensuring that all teachers check pupils' understanding of key concepts before progressing in lessons. Additionally, there is a need for governors to deepen their knowledge of the curriculum to better support and challenge subject leaders. Overall, The Cottesloe School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
