Prenton High School for Girls, located in Birkenhead, Merseyside, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 29 and 30, 2022. The school fosters a caring community where pupils take pride in their environment, guided by core values of trust, respect, integrity, kindness, and endeavor. Students express enjoyment in attending school, attributing this to the kindness and individual attention they receive from teachers. The behavior of pupils aligns with the high expectations set by staff, contributing to a calm atmosphere throughout the school.
Pupils feel safe and confident in approaching staff for assistance with any issues, and the school effectively addresses bullying concerns. The leadership team maintains high academic expectations, and pupils demonstrate focus and diligence in their studies, resulting in commendable achievements. The personal development curriculum, titled Learning for Life, equips students with essential knowledge for leading safe and fulfilling lives. Older students have opportunities to engage in leadership roles, serving as positive role models for younger peers.
The school excels in providing a broad and ambitious curriculum that meets the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Subject leaders have carefully designed curricula that promote logical progression in learning, ensuring that pupils are challenged and exposed to new ideas. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and deliver lessons with enthusiasm, fostering a positive learning environment. However, in a few subjects, there is a need for improved retention of learning, as some pupils struggle to recall previously learned topics, hindering their ability to connect current learning with past knowledge.
Pupils exhibit respectful behavior towards teachers and peers, and recent changes to the behavior policy have been positively received, encouraging good conduct and self-reflection. The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs, providing tailored support to ensure they can progress alongside their peers. Additionally, the school has implemented strategies to enhance reading skills among pupils, resulting in increased confidence in their reading abilities.
The personal development curriculum is well-structured, addressing relevant topics such as relationships, health, equality, and financial management. Pupils receive age-appropriate career education and guidance, preparing them for future opportunities. Staff members appreciate the support from leaders and governors in managing workload, fostering a strong sense of community and well-being within the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded throughout the school. Leaders are well-informed about safeguarding issues and ensure that staff receive thorough training to identify and address potential risks. Pupils are educated on safety measures, both online and in their local community.
To further enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders should focus on reinforcing key topics in subjects where retention of learning is currently lacking. This will help pupils better connect their current studies with prior knowledge, ultimately improving their overall learning experience. The school continues to demonstrate a commitment to providing a high-quality education and supporting the well-being of its pupils, ensuring that they are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
