De La Salle School in Basildon, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on May 1 and 2, 2024. The school is known for its inclusive environment where pupils thrive due to the support and encouragement provided by the staff. The school celebrates diversity, as evidenced by events like culture week, where students engage with various cultures through clothing and food. The Lasallian values are deeply ingrained in the school culture, promoting a sense of responsibility among pupils to help those less fortunate and to support one another.
Pupils at De La Salle School are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, including the school council and prefect roles, which help them develop as confident citizens. The school offers a wide range of clubs, from science to sports, and many students take part in drama productions. Educational trips to universities, museums, and theaters further enrich their learning experiences. The school also prioritizes teaching pupils about safety, covering essential topics such as consent and internet safety.
The curriculum at De La Salle School is broad and ambitious, with most pupils studying languages until the end of Year 11. Subject leaders carefully design the curriculum, breaking it down into manageable chunks to facilitate learning. Teachers utilize their subject knowledge to introduce new concepts clearly and provide feedback to help pupils improve. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, regularly assessing pupils' reading abilities and providing tailored support to those who need it.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly regarding expectations for pupils in key stage three. Some teachers do not consistently challenge pupils enough, which can hinder their depth of knowledge and understanding. The school is encouraged to provide training to ensure that all staff maintain high expectations for all pupils.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with clear expectations set by the school. Most students understand and meet these expectations, and those who require additional support receive it to help them improve. Attendance is high, and pupils enjoy coming to school. The school effectively supports students with social, emotional, and mental health needs, ensuring they can achieve their potential.
De La Salle School prepares its pupils well for life in modern Britain, exposing them to diverse faiths and teaching them about democracy and healthy relationships. The careers education program is comprehensive, providing pupils with valuable guidance for their future paths. The school is actively working to enhance opportunities for students to engage with the world of work.
Leadership at De La Salle School is strong, with governors actively challenging school leaders to maintain and improve standards. The school prioritizes staff well-being and provides training to enhance their skills, resulting in low staff turnover. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, De La Salle School continues to provide a good education, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where pupils can thrive academically and personally. The school is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to succeed.
