Portchester Community School, located in Fareham, Hampshire, has been evaluated as a good school overall, with specific strengths in personal development, quality of education, behavior, and leadership. The inspection took place on January 30 and 31, 2024, and the school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in July 2018. The school is recognized for its inclusive environment, where the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are well understood and supported by staff. Parents have expressed appreciation for the approachable and knowledgeable teachers who cater to their children's abilities.
The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum that engages pupils and encourages them to explore their interests through various extracurricular activities, including sports and events like the Dance Live competition. Pupils report feeling happy and safe at school, with a strong sense of belonging and support from staff. They are aware of whom to approach for help and appreciate the pastoral care provided. While instances of bullying are acknowledged, pupils feel confident that the school takes effective measures to address such issues.
The curriculum is ambitious and designed to provide a wide range of subjects across key stages. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and effectively introduce new concepts in manageable steps, allowing pupils to build their understanding. Regular assessments help teachers identify and address misconceptions, ensuring that pupils receive clear guidance on improving their work. However, there are areas where the introduction of new information and activities could be enhanced to further support learning. The school is committed to providing additional training for staff to improve teaching strategies across the curriculum.
Reading is emphasized as a core component of the school's ethos, with pupils encouraged to read regularly and engage with challenging texts. Teachers introduce new vocabulary across subjects, and pupils demonstrate confidence in using this vocabulary during discussions. Support is provided for those who require assistance in becoming fluent readers.
The school has a well-defined behavior policy that is understood by both staff and pupils. While classrooms are generally calm and orderly, there are challenges during break times and transitions between lessons, where some pupils may not meet the expected standards of behavior. School leaders are actively working to reinforce expectations for conduct throughout the school day.
The provision for personal development is exceptional, with a curriculum that prepares pupils for life in modern Britain. Pupils engage in discussions about current affairs and develop an appreciation for diverse perspectives and cultures. The school's careers program is robust, helping pupils make informed decisions about their futures and ensuring they are well-prepared for further education, employment, or training.
Staff at Portchester Community School are dedicated and work collaboratively to provide a rich array of experiences for pupils. Governors play an active role in holding school leaders accountable for continuous improvement. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve further, the school should focus on ensuring consistency in curriculum delivery across all subjects and maintaining high behavior expectations at all times. Continued training for staff will enhance their ability to support pupil learning effectively. Overall, Portchester Community School is a supportive and engaging environment that fosters the growth and development of its pupils.
