South Hunsley School and Sixth Form College, located in Melton, North Ferriby, has recently undergone an inspection on March 19 and 20, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, and leadership and management also receiving good ratings. Notably, personal development and sixth-form provision have been rated as outstanding. The headteacher, Michaela Blackledge, leads the school, which is part of The Education Alliance Trust, overseen by CEO Jonny Uttley and a board of trustees chaired by Karen Dow.
The school was last inspected 11 years ago, receiving an outstanding rating under a previous framework. Since then, the school has been exempt from routine inspections due to legal provisions. The current inspection reflects the school's performance under the latest framework and considers any changes since the last graded inspection.
Pupils at South Hunsley School benefit from a diverse range of academic and vocational courses that cater to their aspirations. They demonstrate a strong enjoyment of learning and appreciate the quality of lessons provided. The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils make excellent progress and achieve beyond expectations, although a small number of pupils may not receive the precise support they require.
Behaviour in the school is generally positive, with pupils self-regulating their conduct and feeling safe. Instances of bullying are infrequent and addressed promptly. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that enhance pupils' cultural knowledge, including opportunities in sports, drama, and community engagement. Sixth-form students play a vital role in supporting younger pupils and contributing to school improvements.
The curriculum is well-developed and research-informed, equipping pupils with the necessary knowledge and skills for future success. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and employ effective teaching strategies that help pupils retain information over time. Regular assessments allow teachers to gauge understanding and provide feedback, leading to significant progress for students, particularly in the sixth form.
While the school’s curriculum is ambitious and designed to support all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, there are areas for improvement. Some pupils, particularly those who struggle with reading, do not receive the targeted interventions they need, which can hinder their progress. The school is actively working to refine its support for these students.
Attendance rates are high, and pupils value their education. The school has made significant strides in promoting attendance, resulting in improved trends. However, a small number of pupils have yet to develop positive attitudes and behaviours, which the school is addressing through consistent policies and systems.
The personal development programme is exemplary, covering essential topics such as health, British values, and leadership opportunities. Pupils are well-prepared for their future careers, with embedded career education throughout the curriculum and exposure to various employers and training providers.
Staff well-being is prioritized, with initiatives in place to support workload management and professional development. The leadership team, including trustees and governors, effectively holds the school accountable for its performance.
The safeguarding arrangements at South Hunsley School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, particularly in enhancing support for pupils with specific needs and fostering positive behaviours among all students.
