Appleby Grammar School, located in Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria, underwent an inspection on April 26 and 27, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which had rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision were all rated as good.
Students at Appleby Grammar School generally enjoy their time at school and actively participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and trips. The leadership team has established high expectations for student achievement and behavior. During the inspection, students expressed confidence in the support they receive from trusted adults within the school, which contributes to their sense of safety. Teachers are noted for their understanding of students' individual needs, which aids in their learning process.
The majority of students demonstrate politeness and respect towards one another, and they feel that everyone is treated equally. They are eager to learn and understand what is required to improve their performance. While most students believe that bullying is addressed effectively, a small minority feel that anti-bullying measures could be more prominent within the school community. Overall, student behavior is generally good, with teachers effectively managing those who do not meet the school's high expectations.
The school offers a range of clubs that are accessible to all students, which are seen as beneficial for developing new skills. Opportunities such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme and international trips enhance the students' experiences. The leadership team has a clear vision for the school and has made notable strides in curriculum development, particularly for students with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing students to build on their knowledge and skills effectively.
However, some teachers do not utilize assessment strategies effectively, which can lead to gaps in students' understanding. This indicates a need for further training to ensure that all teachers can identify and address misconceptions in student learning. Additionally, while most students are committed to their studies, a small number exhibit behavior that disrupts learning, and not all teachers consistently uphold high behavioral expectations.
The school fosters a strong sense of community, with teachers providing personalized support to students. The personal development program is robust, preparing students for life in modern Britain. Sixth-form students have access to a variety of opportunities to enhance their personal skills, and they receive effective careers advice.
Governors are well-informed about the school's key issues and hold leaders accountable for educational quality. The well-being of staff is prioritized, with leaders considering the impact of changes on workload. Despite the limitations of a small sixth form, students choose to attend due to the tailored support they receive.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to identify signs of risk and work closely with external agencies when necessary. Students are educated about local risks and feel supported in maintaining their safety.
To improve, the school should focus on ensuring that all teachers effectively use assessment strategies to identify and address learning gaps. Additionally, training should be provided to help manage student behavior more effectively, particularly for those who struggle to meet expectations. Overall, Appleby Grammar School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its students.
