Denmark Road High School, located in Gloucester, Gloucestershire, was inspected by Ofsted on 13 and 14 October 2021. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of Good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. This inspection marked the first routine evaluation since the school transitioned from being High School for Girls to its current status as an academy in 2011. The school has a rich history, having previously been rated outstanding before the change.
Pupils at Denmark Road High School benefit from a stimulating and ambitious curriculum that encourages engagement and scholarly discussion. Teachers are dedicated to understanding their students' aspirations, fostering a culture of high expectations. While many students thrive, some have reported challenges related to emotional and mental health, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The school leadership is actively working to enhance mental health support and has plans to further develop these provisions.
The school has made strides in addressing issues of discrimination, with leaders listening to student feedback and implementing changes to create a more inclusive environment for pupils from minority ethnic backgrounds. Most students feel safe and supported, with the Wellbeing Centre recognized as a valuable resource for pastoral care.
The curriculum is well-structured and effectively implemented, celebrating diversity and promoting a broad range of perspectives. Teachers utilize assessments to ensure that students retain and apply their knowledge confidently. Subject leaders have designed the curriculum to enhance vocabulary and writing skills, which in turn deepens students' critical thinking abilities. Most students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are well-supported, although there is a need for clearer communication regarding the specific tiers of support available.
Leaders have shown commendable support for both pupils and staff during the challenges posed by the pandemic, recognizing an increase in social, emotional, and mental health needs among students. They emphasize the importance of balancing academic pursuits with leisure activities, encouraging kindness and mutual support among peers.
Attendance rates are generally good, although some students have experienced lower attendance due to pandemic-related issues. The school has established systems to support attendance improvement. Students exhibit high levels of self-control and respect towards adults, although some instances of unkindness among peers remain a concern. Leaders are committed to fostering respect and kindness within the school community.
The school promotes personal development through its Learning for Life programme, which includes careers education and meets the requirements of the Baker Clause. Students engage in a wide array of extracurricular activities, fostering their growth as active citizens who are eager to contribute positively to society.
The newly formed trust board is composed of skilled leaders who are beginning to define their vision for the school. They are focused on encouraging disadvantaged pupils to attend and benefit from the school's ethos. However, the board is still in the early stages of understanding the curriculum and requires more information to effectively support and challenge school leaders regarding educational quality.
Safeguarding measures at Denmark Road High School are effective, with staff trained to identify risks and support pupil well-being. Leaders have strengthened their capacity to respond to safeguarding concerns promptly.
To improve, the school needs to clarify the support tiers for pupils with SEND to inform strategic decisions better. The trust board should continue to develop its understanding of the school's operations to hold leaders accountable for educational quality. Overall, Denmark Road High School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment for its students.
