Canons High School, located in Edgware, received a Good rating in its recent inspection conducted on January 17 and 18, 2023. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as Requires Improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision were all rated as Good.
The school aims to provide a broad and inclusive education, fostering a sense of belonging among its diverse student body. Pupils appreciate the support they receive from teachers, who are dedicated to their success and often provide assistance beyond regular lesson hours. This commitment has led to strong relationships between students and staff, contributing to a positive learning environment.
Most students exhibit good behavior, and the school prioritizes their safety. A robust pastoral and pupil welfare team is in place, ensuring that students have access to multiple adults for support. The school effectively addresses any allegations of bullying or harassment, promoting a safe atmosphere for all pupils.
The curriculum is ambitious, offering a wide range of academic and vocational subjects. Recent efforts by school leaders to enhance the curriculum have been largely successful, with clear identification of essential knowledge for students to learn in a logical sequence. Teachers are knowledgeable in their subjects and employ suitable activities and resources to facilitate learning. Regular assessments help identify and address gaps in students' knowledge, enabling them to retain key information over time.
However, some subjects have recently introduced changes that are still in the early stages of implementation. In a few areas, there is a need for better planning to ensure a well-sequenced curriculum. Leaders have recognized the importance of developing confident readers and are assessing students' reading abilities to provide tailored support for those who need it.
The school is also attentive to the needs of students with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as those who are at the early stages of learning English as an additional language. While support is generally effective, there are instances where staff do not fully implement the guidance provided by leaders, which can hinder the learning of these students.
The school is working to increase the number of pupils studying for the English Baccalaureate, aiming to raise aspirations among students. A comprehensive careers guidance program helps students make informed choices about their post-16 education, with many continuing to higher education or apprenticeships after leaving the sixth form.
Classroom behavior is generally positive, with teachers managing low-level disruptions effectively. The school environment is calm, although a small number of students exhibit challenging behaviors that can lead to incidents of fighting. Leaders are implementing strategies to support these students, but progress can be slow.
Pupils have access to various enrichment activities, including clubs focused on astronomy, chess, and sports. The school also emphasizes mental and physical health support through pastoral care. Staff report reasonable workloads and feel supported by senior leaders, who prioritize staff welfare.
The safeguarding arrangements at Canons High School are effective, with staff receiving regular training to recognize and report concerning behaviors. The school collaborates with external agencies when necessary to ensure the well-being of its students. Overall, Canons High School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
