JCoSS is a secondary comprehensive school located in New Barnet, Hertfordshire, with a strong emphasis on creating an inclusive and supportive environment for its pupils. The recent inspection conducted on 9 and 10 November 2022 rated the school as good overall, with outstanding ratings in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and sixth-form provision. The school has a diverse curriculum that caters to all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers are dedicated to ensuring that pupils progress through the curriculum while fostering collaboration and independence in learning.
Pupils at JCoSS enjoy their educational experience, benefiting from a warm and respectful atmosphere where they are encouraged to develop their identities while appreciating the diversity of others. The school has established a culture of high expectations, resulting in pupils achieving commendable academic outcomes and becoming confident learners. The curriculum is designed to be broad and balanced, with a focus on enriching learning through various activities, including trips and in-school events.
The school has a strong reputation among parents and carers, with nearly all pupils choosing to continue their education in the sixth form, which offers robust pastoral support and a challenging curriculum. Leaders at JCoSS are committed to continuously improving the quality of education, regularly evaluating and enhancing the curriculum to meet the needs of all pupils. They have made ambitious decisions regarding the knowledge and skills that pupils acquire, ensuring that the curriculum is both deep and broad.
In subjects like English and languages, the curriculum is thoughtfully designed to expose pupils to a range of texts and languages, fostering a comprehensive understanding of literary traditions and encouraging linguistic diversity. Leaders also pay close attention to pupils' aspirations, providing guidance for GCSE options and ensuring a wide range of choices in the sixth form, even when group sizes are small.
The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, with a well-structured personal, social, and health education curriculum that promotes understanding and respect for diverse identities. Pupils are taught essential life skills, including how to stay safe and navigate various challenges. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, and pupils look forward to participating in trips that enhance their educational experience.
Governance at JCoSS is characterized by a deep commitment to the school, with governors actively challenging and supporting leaders. Staff members express pride in their work environment, feeling well-supported and benefiting from high-quality professional development. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring that staff are trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding pupil safety.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some inconsistencies in the delivery of the curriculum that leaders are actively addressing. They are focused on ensuring that all staff adhere to agreed approaches for supporting and checking pupils' learning. Overall, JCoSS is a well-regarded institution that prioritizes the holistic development of its pupils, preparing them for future success in a supportive and enriching environment.
