Lytham St Annes High School, located in Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 19 and 20 October 2022. The school offers a diverse range of learning opportunities, which students appreciate. They take pride in maintaining a portfolio of their achievements, including participation in various extracurricular activities such as music, sports, and art clubs. Students also highlight their involvement in numerous trips and visits, as well as the development of their leadership skills through voluntary work.
The school fosters a positive learning environment where high expectations for behavior are upheld. Students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, report that poor behavior does not disrupt their learning, thanks to the consistent application of the behavior policy by teachers. Pupils feel safe and happy at school, demonstrating positive attitudes towards their education. However, a small number of students occasionally struggle to regulate their behavior during social times, although the school has effective measures in place to address bullying and derogatory language.
The curriculum at Lytham St Annes High School is well-designed and ambitious, catering for all students, including those with special educational needs. The sequence of learning is carefully structured to help students build a strong foundation of knowledge across most subjects. While many subjects are taught effectively, there are minor inconsistencies in the delivery of new learning in a few areas, which can hinder some students from reaching their full potential.
Leaders have made significant improvements in modern foreign languages, resulting in an increased number of students opting to study these subjects in key stage four. This change has positively impacted the proportion of students accessing the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. Teachers effectively utilize assessment systems to monitor student progress and identify learning gaps, ensuring that subject leaders are held accountable for student outcomes.
The school has recently expanded its support team for students with special educational needs, allowing for quicker identification and tailored support for those who require additional help. Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with initiatives in place to foster a love of reading among students. Staff are well-trained to assist pupils in improving their reading fluency and comprehension.
Leadership at the school is of high quality, with enrichment opportunities integrated into all aspects of school life. The school’s “more than grades” program recognizes students’ wider developmental achievements, and all pupils, including those with special educational needs, engage in activities linked to key areas of personal development. The governing body provides effective oversight and challenge to school leaders, ensuring that the quality of education remains high.
Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with well-trained staff able to identify potential concerns and maintain effective records. Leaders are proactive in seeking external support when necessary and adapt the personal development curriculum to address the specific safety needs of their students.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders should ensure that all teachers are consistently trained to deliver the curriculum effectively and support students in managing their behavior during social times. Overall, Lytham St Annes High School continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on student achievement and well-being.
