Applemore College, located in Dibden Purlieu, Southampton, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The recent inspection in October 2024 has resulted in a commendable overall rating of good across all key areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has made notable strides in enhancing its educational offerings, particularly through the life skills program, which helps students engage with diverse cultures and issues such as climate change and animal welfare. The values of belief, respect, and determination are deeply integrated into the school culture, fostering a supportive environment for students.
Pupils at Applemore College demonstrate a strong understanding of equality and diversity, reflecting on important social issues. They have access to various leadership opportunities, including roles as prefects and sports leaders, which contribute to their personal development. The school actively supports disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities through a robust extracurricular program and a comprehensive careers initiative. Teachers maintain high expectations for student behavior and commitment, leading to improved attendance and a positive school atmosphere. Relationships between staff and students are characterized by support and compassion, ensuring that pupils feel safe and valued.
The curriculum at Applemore College is well-structured and ambitious, although there is a recognized need to increase the number of pupils pursuing the English Baccalaureate. The school has taken steps to encourage more students to study foreign languages and has introduced advanced courses in science and mathematics for high-achieving students. Despite these advancements, the school acknowledges the need for further work to enhance examination outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged students.
Staff training initiatives have fostered consistency in teaching practices, and collaborative efforts such as 'wisdom Wednesdays' allow for the sharing of best practices among educators. The school is committed to improving literacy levels and promoting a love for reading through various initiatives, which have positively impacted students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The implementation of a new behavior policy has resulted in a calmer classroom environment, with a significant decrease in suspensions.
Attendance rates have improved, particularly among disadvantaged pupils, due to the school's proactive approach in addressing barriers to attendance. The life skills program is a notable strength, focusing on students' safety, health, and well-being while preparing them for future educational and career opportunities. Leaders at the school have a clear understanding of its strengths and weaknesses, although there is room for improvement in the specificity of school improvement planning.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas that require further attention. Staff need to enhance their ability to adapt teaching methods to meet the diverse learning needs of disadvantaged pupils to ensure they achieve their full potential. Additionally, the school must continue to develop strategies to engage pupils with poor attendance to improve their learning outcomes. Leaders are encouraged to utilize data more effectively to evaluate the impact of their initiatives, allowing for a more precise understanding of which actions yield the best results.
Overall, Applemore College has demonstrated a commitment to fostering a positive educational environment and improving student outcomes. The school is on a promising trajectory, with dedicated staff and leadership working collaboratively to ensure that all pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
