Toot Hill School, located in Bingham, Nottinghamshire, was inspected on November 8 and 9, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and leadership and management also receiving good ratings. Notably, personal development and sixth-form provision were rated as outstanding. The school had not been inspected for eleven years prior to this evaluation, during which it was previously rated outstanding.
The inspection highlighted that leaders at Toot Hill School have high aspirations for their students, providing a well-organized and ambitious curriculum that supports the majority of pupils in achieving success. Most students enjoy attending school and feel safe, appreciating the school’s culture of hard work, kindness, and pride. The atmosphere within the school is calm and purposeful, with pupils generally displaying respect towards one another and understanding that bullying is unacceptable. When issues arise, staff are quick to address them.
Extracurricular activities are abundant, with many students participating in various opportunities that allow them to explore their talents and engage in new experiences. The sixth-form students particularly value their roles as subject representatives and members of the student union. The curriculum is extensive, catering for a wide range of academic and vocational subjects, including support for students with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the implementation of the science curriculum, where some teachers do not follow the planned order of topics, leading to inconsistencies in student engagement and understanding.
The report noted that while most pupils behave well, some express anxiety about making mistakes and feel that certain rules are excessive. This can hinder their full participation in school life. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that pupils understand the rationale behind school rules and to involve them in creating a positive school environment. Communication with parents also needs enhancement, as some feel inadequately informed about school decisions, particularly regarding behavior management and uniform policies.
The quality of sixth-form provision is exceptional, with students demonstrating commitment and aspiration. They engage in discussions about important topics and feel well-supported in planning their future steps, with many progressing to university or apprenticeships. The personal development program is comprehensive, addressing new risks and promoting well-being among students.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with most pupils feeling safe and knowing how to report concerns. Staff are trained to recognize and address potential issues, and leaders have increased support for mental health needs since the pandemic.
Overall, Toot Hill School is positioned well for continued improvement, with strong leadership and a commitment to providing a high-quality education. The school’s focus on personal development, alongside its extensive curriculum and supportive environment, contributes to the positive experiences of its pupils. However, addressing the inconsistencies in the science curriculum and enhancing communication with parents will be essential for further progress.
