Carterton Community College in Oxfordshire underwent an inspection on March 2 and 3, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision were all rated as good.
The school fosters a strong sense of community, with staff and pupils forming positive relationships. Pupils feel safe and valued, often describing the school as a family. They report enjoying their time at school and building meaningful friendships. While bullying does occur, the school effectively addresses incidents when they arise. Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, and most students respond positively, contributing to a conducive learning environment. Those who struggle with behavior receive appropriate support to minimize disruptions.
Carterton Community College has strengthened its curriculum since the last inspection, ensuring that learning is organized logically from Year 7 through to the sixth form. This structured approach prepares pupils well for their future endeavors. The headteacher has successfully shifted the school culture to prioritize learning, and pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, engage actively in lessons. Teachers are encouraged to revisit key concepts to reinforce learning, although there is variability in how effectively this is implemented across subjects.
The school is attentive to the diverse needs of its pupils, making necessary adjustments to teaching methods. However, some pupils with special educational needs may experience slower progress due to insufficient understanding of their specific requirements by staff. Leaders are aware of this issue and are working to improve the quality of information shared with teachers regarding these pupils.
Reading is a focal point at the school, with monitoring systems in place to support those who struggle. Regular reading opportunities help pupils develop confidence and fluency. However, the school recognizes that too few pupils pursue the English Baccalaureate at key stage 4, particularly in language studies. Leaders are actively addressing this by enhancing language learning opportunities, including the recruitment of a Spanish teacher to broaden language options.
Character development is integral to the school's ethos, with values such as respect, responsibility, ambition, kindness, and independence being promoted. Pupils demonstrate these traits in their interactions and are motivated by a house points system that recognizes their achievements. The personal, social, and health education program equips pupils with knowledge about important issues, fostering tolerance and understanding of diversity.
The school has established a structured careers program that provides valuable information about various pathways, with a particular emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through partnerships with organizations like the Royal Air Force. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns, ensuring the safety and well-being of pupils.
Despite the overall positive findings, the inspection highlighted areas for improvement. Some teachers need to enhance their methods for checking pupils' understanding, as gaps in learning may not always be identified. Additionally, the curriculum must better meet the needs of all pupils with special educational needs. Leaders are committed to addressing these challenges to ensure that all pupils receive the support they need to succeed.