Tewkesbury School, located in Gloucestershire, underwent an inspection in October and December 2022, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and leadership and management were also rated as Requires Improvement, while personal development and sixth-form provision received a Good rating. The school previously held a Good rating in its last inspection in September 2021.
Students generally enjoy their time at Tewkesbury School, participating in a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, drama, and music. They appreciate opportunities to engage in performances and educational trips that enhance their learning experiences. While most students exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, a minority disrupt classes, which affects the overall learning environment. Although students can accurately define bullying and acknowledge that staff are addressing these issues, they feel that the newly implemented systems for managing bullying are not yet effective.
Reading for enjoyment is encouraged, with access to a well-stocked library and designated reading times. However, some students who struggle with reading do not receive timely and effective support, hindering their ability to keep up with the curriculum. In contrast, sixth-form students benefit from a high-quality education that prepares them well for life beyond school, fostering strong knowledge of various subjects.
The school has made efforts to revise its curriculum, ensuring it is well-sequenced and builds on prior knowledge. For instance, the mathematics curriculum effectively supports students in learning new concepts. The English curriculum incorporates engaging texts to enhance students' understanding of literary techniques. However, the needs of some students with special educational needs and disabilities are not accurately identified, resulting in insufficient support for their learning.
Leadership has not effectively monitored the support provided to students with special educational needs, leading to some students lacking the necessary assistance to improve their reading skills. While relationships between staff and students are generally positive, issues of bullying persist, and the school has introduced new strategies to combat this. Despite a reduction in suspensions, some students continue to disrupt lessons.
The school has implemented a comprehensive careers education program, ensuring students are well-informed about their future options. Strong links with local universities and work experience opportunities for sixth-form students further enhance their readiness for post-school life. Attendance is generally good, although some students with special educational needs do not attend as regularly as they should. Leaders are working to improve this situation.
The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is well-planned, providing students with opportunities to discuss relevant issues. However, the depth of learning in this area varies between key stages. Governors are actively engaged in improving their effectiveness and support the school's vision for the success of all students. They monitor the work of school leaders and prioritize staff well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Tewkesbury School are effective, with leaders ensuring the safety of students through timely actions and collaboration with external agencies. Staff receive regular safeguarding training, and appropriate background checks are conducted for all adults working in the school.
To improve, the school must ensure that the learning needs of students with special educational needs are clearly identified and that they receive the necessary support. Timely intervention for students struggling with reading is essential for their academic success. Continued efforts to address bullying and poor behavior are also necessary to create a conducive learning environment. Finally, improving attendance for students with special educational needs is crucial for their overall learning experience.
