Allestree Woodlands School, located in Derby, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 23rd and 24th of April 2024, and it highlighted several strengths of the school, particularly in the areas of education quality, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision, all of which were rated as good. This marks a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement.
The school is characterized by its inclusive environment, where core values such as courage, optimism, regard, and endeavor are integral to daily life. Pupils and staff demonstrate mutual respect, fostering a supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable seeking help and asking questions. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with politeness and good manners observed throughout the school. During breaks, students engage in various extracurricular activities, contributing to a vibrant school culture. The calmness in lessons and the rarity of disruptions further emphasize the positive learning environment.
Allestree Woodlands School maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The school ensures that these pupils are fully included in all aspects of school life, utilizing additional support staff to facilitate their learning. This approach has proven effective, allowing students with hearing impairments to participate fully in lessons.
The curriculum is well-structured and thoughtfully planned, with clear objectives for what students should learn and when. The school emphasizes the importance of knowledge, particularly in subjects like English, where students explore a diverse range of literature that encourages critical discussions on significant themes. The reading curriculum has been recently enhanced, providing targeted support for early readers, which has shown promising results in boosting their confidence and overall literacy skills.
Teachers at Allestree Woodlands demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ effective assessment strategies to gauge student understanding. While most pupils achieve in line with national expectations, there are areas for further development, particularly in certain subjects where practices are still evolving. The school actively collaborates with parents and external organizations to improve attendance, which has seen marked improvements, although some groups of pupils still face challenges in this area.
The school offers a broad curriculum that extends beyond academics, promoting understanding of world faiths and inclusivity. Career guidance is robust, providing students with insights into various vocational paths, university courses, and apprenticeships. The personal development program addresses essential life skills, including health and safety, and encourages physical activity.
Staff morale is high, with many expressing satisfaction in their roles. Professional development opportunities are well-planned, contributing to the overall improvement of the school. Leaders have made significant strides in enhancing the school's performance while ensuring that changes are sustainable and supported by staff. The governing body is well-informed and plays an active role in the school's continuous improvement efforts.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. However, the school recognizes the need to further address attendance issues, particularly for disadvantaged pupils, to close gaps in learning and improve overall outcomes. The commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational experience is evident, positioning Allestree Woodlands School as a strong educational institution within the community.
