Corbridge Middle School is a community-focused institution located in Northumberland, dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive environment for its students. The recent inspection conducted on 19 and 20 October 2021 highlighted the school's outstanding performance across various aspects, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has made significant strides since its previous inspection, where it was rated as good.
The curriculum at Corbridge Middle School is well-structured and effectively delivered, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to thrive. The school emphasizes high academic standards, and by the end of Year 8, students achieve commendable results across all subjects, preparing them well for their transition to high school. The learning environment is calm and respectful, fostering a culture where pupils work diligently and behave appropriately. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff are quick to address them, ensuring a safe atmosphere for all students.
The enrichment program at Corbridge Middle School significantly enhances the educational experience, offering a diverse range of activities that go beyond the standard curriculum. Pupils have the opportunity to engage in sports, learn British Sign Language, and participate in cooking classes with professional chefs. This variety not only enriches their learning but also helps to develop their interests and talents outside of the classroom.
Parents and carers express overwhelming satisfaction with the school, often praising the dedication of the staff and the positive impact on their children’s education. The leadership team, including governors, is committed to continuous improvement and actively seeks feedback to enhance the school’s offerings. They work collaboratively with subject leaders to ensure a coherent curriculum that aligns with the needs of pupils as they progress through their education.
Teachers at Corbridge Middle School employ effective questioning techniques to assess pupils' understanding and readiness to advance in their learning. They adapt lessons based on assessment data, providing targeted interventions when necessary. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, encouraging all pupils to explore a variety of texts during lessons and dedicated reading time.
While the school excels in many areas, there is room for improvement in the daily form time, which lacks a clearly defined purpose. This has led to some inconsistencies in how this time is utilized, affecting its overall impact on students. Nevertheless, the school offers an impressive array of extracurricular opportunities, with nearly all pupils participating in additional activities. The leadership team actively encourages families to engage in these programs, ensuring that all students can benefit from the diverse offerings available.
The school’s approach to careers education is highly effective, instilling ambition in pupils and providing them with a clear understanding of expectations. Students are motivated to work hard to achieve their goals, and their focus during lessons is commendable. The support provided to pupils with special educational needs is particularly noteworthy, with staff making thoughtful adjustments to ensure accessibility to the curriculum.
Safeguarding measures at Corbridge Middle School are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated about safety, including online safety, and know whom to approach with concerns. The school maintains thorough checks on all adults working within the institution, ensuring a secure environment for all students. Overall, Corbridge Middle School stands out as an exemplary institution, committed to fostering a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils.
