Ofsted conducted a monitoring inspection of Ortu Gable Hall School on May 10, 2023, following a previous inspection in May 2022 that identified serious weaknesses. The inspection aimed to evaluate the progress made by the school in addressing these weaknesses. The inspection team, which included Ofsted inspectors and the Chief Inspector's representative, engaged with school leaders, trustees, governors, and various stakeholders, including pupils and staff. They reviewed curriculum documents, lesson observations, and safeguarding records to assess the school's current status.
The findings indicate that Ortu Gable Hall School remains inadequate and continues to exhibit serious weaknesses. While school leaders have made some progress in improving the institution, significant work is still required to lift the serious weakness designation. One of the primary areas of concern is the management of pupil behavior. The inspection revealed that not all staff maintain high expectations for behavior, leading to disruptions in learning. This inconsistency in behavior management has resulted in a learning environment that is not conducive to academic success for all pupils.
The inspection also focused on safeguarding arrangements and the effectiveness of personal, social, health, and economic education (PSHE) and relationships and sex education (RSE). Leaders have made strides in enhancing the profile of reading within the school, with increased opportunities for pupils to engage with reading materials. The library has seen improvements, and pupils recognize the importance of reading. However, challenges remain in ensuring that all pupils, particularly those at early stages of reading, receive adequate support and access to appropriate texts. Teachers lack the necessary information to effectively support these pupils, which hampers their reading development.
In terms of PSHE and RSE, leaders have established a dedicated team to deliver the curriculum effectively. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build their understanding over time. However, inconsistencies in topic delivery by different teachers have led to gaps in pupils' understanding. The inspection highlighted concerns raised by pupils and parents regarding behavior quality, with reports of unacceptable behavior in lessons. While some lessons are calm and focused, others experience persistent disruptions, negatively impacting the learning experience.
The inspection noted improvements in safeguarding practices since the last visit. Leaders have implemented effective measures to ensure staff understand their safeguarding responsibilities. Records indicate that staff respond promptly to concerns, and pupils feel supported by staff in navigating challenges both in and out of school. Governance has also improved, with trustees and governors actively monitoring safeguarding practices and holding leaders accountable for their responsibilities.
In summary, while Ortu Gable Hall School has made some progress in addressing previous weaknesses, it remains in a state of serious concern. The school must prioritize establishing consistent behavior management practices, enhancing support for early readers, and ensuring effective delivery of the PSHE and RSE curriculum. Continued focus on safeguarding and governance will be essential in fostering a safe and productive learning environment for all pupils. The school community is encouraged to work collaboratively to address these challenges and strive for improvement in the educational experience provided to students.
