Lady Manners School, located in Bakewell, Derbyshire, has been rated as good overall in its recent inspection. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with a focus on fostering positive relationships among pupils and staff. Students express pride in their school and appreciate the support and guidance they receive from their teachers. The school environment is perceived as safe, and pupils feel confident that they can seek help if needed. Bullying is not considered a significant issue, and students have faith in their teachers to address any concerns that may arise.
The school offers a broad curriculum that allows pupils to explore various interests beyond the standard curriculum. Many students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, actively participate in a range of clubs and extracurricular activities. The school encourages pupils to develop high aspirations and provides effective careers education to help them make informed decisions about their future. The behaviour policy is effective, with high expectations set for pupils, who generally exhibit good behaviour in lessons and during social times.
Leadership at Lady Manners School is strong, with leaders aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff feel re-energized under new leadership, and there is a positive atmosphere among the staff. The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to broaden their experiences and cultural understanding, including international exchanges and various extracurricular activities in sports, music, and the arts. The curriculum is ambitious and continuously evolving to meet the needs of pupils and the local community, with plans to increase vocational qualifications.
Teachers are subject specialists and receive training to implement the curriculum effectively. They help pupils build on their knowledge and make connections between subjects, which enhances retention and understanding. Pupils, including those with special educational needs, achieve well in many subjects. However, there are instances where teachers do not fully recognize the steps needed for some pupils to progress, leading to gaps in learning that need to be addressed.
Reading is prioritized, with support provided for pupils who struggle. The school promotes a culture of reading, and the library is well-resourced and actively used. The sixth form offers quality education, enabling students to achieve high levels. Support is provided for those needing to re-sit their GCSEs, and sixth-form students serve as positive role models for younger pupils. However, attendance in the sixth form, particularly among Year 13 students, remains a concern, and leaders are working to improve this.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a culture of vigilance established within the school. Staff receive high-quality training and are aware of the necessary actions to take if a pupil requires assistance. The school prioritizes the mental health and well-being of its pupils, with mental health specialists available on-site. The curriculum also educates pupils on safety in various situations, including online safety.
To further improve, the school must ensure that the curriculum meets the needs of all pupils and that systems in the sixth form are more effectively managed. Attendance remains a priority, particularly for disadvantaged pupils, and efforts must continue to enhance overall attendance rates. The school is committed to ongoing improvement and fostering an environment where all pupils can thrive academically and personally.