Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre, located in Emmer Green, Reading, is recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on March 26 and 27, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Rachel Cave, the school operates as a single-academy trust overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Arttu Rajantie. The school maintains high expectations for both pupil behavior and academic achievement, effectively supporting students in their ambitious aspirations. The majority of pupils exhibit politeness, respect, and kindness, contributing positively to the school environment. Regular attendance is noted, and pupils actively engage in meaningful leadership roles that enhance their well-being and that of their peers.
The school has implemented an inclusion charter, developed by students, which fosters a safe and supportive atmosphere where discrimination is not tolerated. This commitment to inclusivity allows all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to participate fully in school life. Highdown School excels in promoting reading among its students, providing targeted support for weaker readers and encouraging a love for literature through various activities, including reading sessions, author visits, and competitions. The school's recommended reading list, known as the Highdown Canon, features a diverse selection of culturally rich texts that enhance pupils' cultural and spiritual understanding.
Pupils achieve commendably across a wide range of subjects, particularly in key stages three and four, as reflected in their examination results at the end of Year 11. The curriculum is designed to meet diverse needs, including vocational options for some students. Although there was a slight dip in outcomes for Year 13 students in 2023, current sixth-form students are making strong progress. The school is proactive in addressing any identified areas for improvement in teaching and curriculum delivery, with trustees effectively overseeing these efforts.
Staff at Highdown School possess high levels of expertise and subject knowledge, benefiting from a robust training and development program that is focused on enhancing teaching quality. While teaching methods are generally effective, some variability exists, occasionally hindering the depth of pupils' understanding. The school is committed to refining its approaches to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
Support for pupils with special educational needs is strong, with staff accurately identifying needs and making necessary adaptations in lessons. However, the school recognizes that the achievement of other disadvantaged pupils is not consistently high and is taking steps to improve this area. The school fosters a culture of hard work and concentration, with pupils motivated to succeed. Behaviour management is effective, and the school has implemented strong measures to improve attendance.
Highdown School provides excellent opportunities for pupils' wider development, instilling a strong understanding of its core values of aspiration, respect, and excellence. Pupils' talents and interests are nurtured through a broad curriculum and a variety of extracurricular activities, including trips and clubs. The school emphasizes the importance of mental and physical health, preparing students for future challenges and encouraging positive contributions to the community.
Trustees ensure effective engagement with staff, involving them in decision-making processes and prioritizing their well-being. The school’s commitment to a fair workload is evident, fostering loyalty and pride among staff. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education and supporting the holistic development of its students.
