Ofsted conducted a no formal designation inspection at Park Community School on May 5, 2022, to assess the effectiveness of safeguarding arrangements following concerns raised after a previous inspection. The inspection, led by Chris Ellison, confirmed that safeguarding at the school is effective. The headteacher, Christopher Anders, and the staff provided valuable assistance during the visit, which involved scrutinizing the single central record and other safeguarding documents, as well as discussions with school leaders, pupils, and staff.
The school has a total of 910 pupils enrolled and is situated in an area characterized by high levels of deprivation, with 49 percent of students eligible for free school meals. The proportion of pupils receiving support for special educational needs and disabilities is significantly above the national average. Some students attend alternative provisions, which are approved by the local authority, while others with specific needs receive instruction at a different site.
The inspection findings highlighted that safeguarding measures align with the school's previous inspection results. School leaders possess extensive knowledge of safeguarding and prioritize it effectively. The policies and procedures in place are robust, and leaders ensure they are implemented thoroughly. This includes strong protocols for managing allegations against staff, which are closely followed. Staff members receive regular and effective training, equipping them with the knowledge to identify risks to children and address concerns appropriately. Pupils feel safe discussing their worries with staff, as they trust them to provide necessary support and guidance.
Leaders have trained staff to recognize and challenge peer-on-peer sexual harassment and abuse, fostering an environment where pupils are encouraged to speak up about their concerns. The school acts promptly to provide additional support for pupils in need, monitoring ongoing safeguarding cases to ensure no issues are overlooked. When necessary, leaders make timely referrals to external agencies and follow up to ensure that pupils and their families receive the required assistance.
The school's approach to personal, social, health, and economic education significantly contributes to its safeguarding culture. Pupils learn about various topics that help them stay safe and understand potential risks, with a focus on issues most relevant to their context, such as online safety, healthy relationships, and mental health. Students appreciate these lessons, stating that they empower them to make informed choices in their daily lives.
Governors demonstrate strong expertise in safeguarding, receiving regular training and information to ensure effective oversight of school procedures. They actively engage in discussions about safeguarding during meetings and ensure that policies remain current. Governors ask pertinent questions regarding the effectiveness of safeguarding measures and seek evidence to confirm that systems are functioning as intended. Some governors have undergone safer recruitment training, which they apply during the hiring process for new staff.
Overall, the inspection concluded that safeguarding at Park Community School is effective, reflecting the commitment of leaders, staff, and governors to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school’s proactive measures and comprehensive training programs contribute to a supportive environment where students feel secure and valued. The findings indicate a strong safeguarding culture that prioritizes the needs of pupils and fosters their development in a safe and nurturing setting.
