Felixstowe School, located in Suffolk, has undergone a recent inspection on June 4 and 5, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The headteacher, Emma Wilson-Downes, leads the school, which is part of the Unity Schools Partnership Trust, overseen by CEO Tim Coulson and a board of trustees chaired by Christine Quinn.
The school has made notable strides in creating a positive environment for its pupils. Students report feeling safe and supported, which contributes to their overall happiness. The school has high aspirations for its pupils, and this is reflected in the ambitious curriculum that has been implemented across various subjects. As a result, pupils are now making good progress in their studies, enjoying more challenging lessons with teachers who provide better support for their learning.
Behavioural standards have also improved significantly, allowing for a more conducive learning environment. Most pupils are eager to learn and are encouraged to strive for their best. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs focused on robotics and podcasting, as well as opportunities to participate in sports and music. This variety helps pupils develop a broader understanding of the world and fosters respect for diversity and tolerance.
The curriculum at Felixstowe School is broad and balanced, with leaders ensuring that it is challenging enough to help pupils achieve better outcomes. More students are now taking and passing GCSEs in subjects that form part of the English Baccalaureate, positioning them well for future academic and career opportunities. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and provide clear explanations, although there are areas where teaching effectiveness could be improved due to temporary staffing issues or the need for further professional development.
The sixth-form provision is also commendable, with students benefiting from tailored support that addresses their individual needs. This has led to improved progress compared to previous years, and the positive behaviour and attitudes among sixth-form students contribute to a supportive learning atmosphere.
While the school has made significant progress, there are still areas for improvement. Attendance remains a concern, with some pupils not attending as regularly as they should, which impacts their learning. The school is actively working to address these attendance issues. Additionally, there are instances where the curriculum is not implemented consistently across all subjects, leading to gaps in knowledge for some pupils. The support provided for weaker readers also needs to be more closely aligned with their specific learning needs to ensure all pupils can improve their reading skills effectively.
Overall, Felixstowe School is on a positive trajectory, with effective leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement. The trust provides valuable support, enhancing leadership and staff well-being, which in turn benefits pupil learning. The school is focused on creating an inclusive environment that meets the diverse needs of its students while preparing them for future success.
