Maidenhill School, located in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 22 and 23, 2022. The school provides a supportive and engaging environment where pupils feel happy and safe. They are encouraged to express their concerns to adults, and the school has established various support systems, including mental health assistance. The curriculum is ambitious, and pupils appreciate the challenges it presents, which fosters a positive attitude towards learning. The behavior of pupils is commendable, both in lessons and during social interactions, contributing to a sense of community within the school. Bullying incidents are rare, and when they do occur, staff are quick to address and resolve the issues. The designated staff members who support pupils are well-liked and trusted, facilitating friendships across different year groups.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including academic, sporting, musical, and recreational opportunities, which many pupils actively participate in. The curriculum is well-structured, covering a broad spectrum of subjects throughout key stages three and four. Staff members possess strong subject knowledge, enabling them to deliver a challenging educational experience. For instance, the English curriculum includes the study of pre-20th-century texts in Year 7, enhancing pupils' literary exposure. Leaders are focused on increasing the number of pupils taking academic GCSE subjects in key stage four.
Assessment practices are effectively utilized by teachers to support pupil learning and inform their teaching strategies. They regularly check for understanding and address any misconceptions. However, there are some subjects that are not as robust as others, which can hinder pupils' overall learning experience. Teachers are well-informed about the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, allowing them to plan an ambitious curriculum with targeted support to ensure these pupils achieve well.
Reading is a priority at Maidenhill School, with dedicated time allocated at the beginning of every English lesson. Achievements in reading are celebrated, motivating pupils to engage with literature. Additionally, reading groups provide structured support for pupils who need to catch up. The school environment is calm and orderly, with pupils demonstrating politeness and good manners. The transition for Year 7 pupils is supported through a summer school, which helps them acclimate to the school setting.
Staff members express high levels of job satisfaction, feeling supported by leaders in managing their workload. They are dedicated to the success of all pupils and maintain a close relationship with the local authority to track the progress of pupils who leave the school. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety promoted throughout the school. Staff are well-trained and aware of their responsibilities regarding pupil welfare.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects lack consistency in quality, which affects pupils' retention of knowledge across the curriculum. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that all subjects meet the same high standards to better prepare pupils for their future educational and career paths. Overall, Maidenhill School continues to provide a positive educational experience, fostering a supportive community and encouraging academic achievement.
