Westminster City School, located in London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 22 and 23, 2022. The school provides a rich curriculum and a variety of opportunities for its pupils, including work experience and mentoring. Leaders at the school encourage students to aim high in their learning and to develop their talents, ensuring that they are well-prepared for future career choices. From the outset, pupils receive targeted support to help them achieve their ambitions, which includes guidance for GCSE and post-16 options. The school’s science program, for example, features guest speakers and visits during science week, exposing students to a range of science-based careers. The sixth form is increasingly popular, and the school leverages its location to enhance learning and provide additional opportunities.
Pupils express happiness and a sense of safety within the school environment, often describing the community as family-like. The school has implemented a rewards system that promotes positive behavior, minimizing off-task behavior and effectively addressing any instances of bullying. The leadership has introduced a broad and ambitious curriculum for all pupils, ensuring that students in Years 7, 8, and 9 study a comprehensive range of national curriculum subjects. Teachers are knowledgeable and plan lessons carefully, enabling pupils to retain and build upon their learning. Regular reviews of previous learning help reinforce knowledge retention, and the curriculum is sequenced to ensure that all pupils reach ambitious goals.
Leaders provide teachers with detailed information about their pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. Most teachers effectively use this information to support pupils in accessing the curriculum. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent assessment practices across all subjects, especially for pupils with special educational needs. Leaders are actively working to address this through staff training.
Reading is a priority at Westminster City School, with additional support provided for pupils who need help. In Years 7 and 8, regular reading in English lessons enhances fluency and independence. The school ensures that all pupils experience a diverse range of literature, including through a tutor reading program. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to help pupils recover from learning losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Years 10 and 11, pupils continue to study a wide array of subjects, with opportunities to pursue individual interests, including separate sciences and creative subjects. The sixth form benefits from expert teachers who provide clear instruction and regular feedback, contributing to a supportive learning environment. Pupils appreciate the quality of careers advice available to them.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, sports, and debating, which have resumed following the pandemic. Leaders have established connections with local businesses to enrich these programs. Pupils trust the staff and feel supported, with low levels of disruption reported in classrooms. The clear rewards and sanctions system contributes to a calm and orderly school environment.
Leaders have responded to feedback regarding the broader development of pupils, implementing a comprehensive PSHE education program and a series of assemblies to promote spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. The school fosters an understanding of diverse identities and the importance of respect and tolerance. Leaders and governors are ambitious for the school and consider staff workload when implementing changes. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with secure systems in place to identify and support pupils' needs. Staff are well-trained in recognizing and reporting concerns, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. Overall, Westminster City School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with ongoing efforts to enhance teaching and learning.
