Berwick Middle School, located in Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school fosters an environment where pupils actively engage in school life, with all students participating in at least one extra-curricular activity, which helps them explore interests beyond the academic curriculum. The atmosphere within the school is calm and orderly, with pupils demonstrating politeness and good conduct, reflecting the high expectations set by the staff.
In lessons, pupils show a strong focus and take pride in their work, contributing to class discussions and feedback. The inclusion of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is commendable, as they are fully integrated into all aspects of school life and are encouraged to participate in lessons and activities. The special educational needs coordinator effectively meets the needs of these pupils, ensuring they receive the support necessary for their success.
While the majority of pupils report that bullying is rare and that staff handle any incidents effectively, there are mixed views on this issue. A small number of pupils express concerns about the prevalence of bullying and their confidence in the school's response. Nevertheless, school leaders communicate clear anti-bullying messages and take a firm stance against any known incidents.
Parents overwhelmingly express positive sentiments regarding their children's experiences at Berwick Middle School, with many praising the dedication of the teaching staff. The school has made strides in improving its curriculum, with leaders planning topics and units for pupil learning. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in clearly identifying the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire. This lack of clarity can lead to inconsistencies in learning experiences across different classes.
Teachers utilize recall activities to reinforce previous learning, which has proven beneficial for pupils. The impact of the pandemic on the learning of Year 6 pupils in 2022 is acknowledged, and leaders have taken steps to address any gaps in learning to ensure current pupils are well-prepared for their transition to high school. Pupils with special educational needs access the same curriculum as their peers, with additional resources and support provided effectively.
Reading is a priority at Berwick Middle School, with interventions in place for weaker readers. The school promotes a love of reading through various initiatives, including popular book swaps and daily reading opportunities, which enhance pupils' enjoyment and enthusiasm for literature. The personal development program is well-structured, with representation from all pupils on the school council, fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is respected.
Staff at the school express pride in their work and feel well-supported by the leadership team, valuing the professional development opportunities available to them. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a clear system for reporting and recording concerns. Staff receive training to identify signs of abuse and neglect, ensuring pupils receive relevant safety information.
To improve further, the school needs to enhance the planning and sequencing of its curriculum across all subjects, ensuring that important concepts and ideas are clearly defined. This will enable pupils to build on their existing knowledge and engage more deeply with significant topics over time. Overall, Berwick Middle School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.