Notre Dame High School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, has been evaluated as a good educational institution following its inspection on January 25 and 26, 2022. The school is characterized by a caring community where students feel safe, valued, and supported. The Christian ethos of the school is evident in its operations, and the leadership team has a clear vision that is shared by the staff. This collaborative approach ensures that all students benefit from an ambitious curriculum and a variety of extracurricular opportunities.
The behavior of students is generally positive, with minimal disruption during lessons and around the school. Instances of misbehavior are addressed promptly, and the school has effective measures in place to deal with bullying. Students express trust in the adults at the school, believing that their concerns will be heard and addressed. The school fosters an inclusive culture, with students actively participating in promoting this environment. Feedback from parents and carers is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the aspirations and care that staff demonstrate towards their children.
The curriculum at Notre Dame High School is ambitious and well-structured, with subject leaders clearly identifying essential knowledge for students to learn. The organization of knowledge within subjects builds on prior learning, which is particularly evident in the sixth form. Teachers are committed to helping students retain important information through regular revisiting of taught material. Additionally, students who struggle with reading are quickly identified and supported, with skilled staff assisting them in improving their literacy skills. The school also provides effective support for students with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they receive the necessary assistance to thrive.
While the school has established a robust system for monitoring student progress, some subject leaders need to enhance their analysis of assessment data to inform curriculum improvements. Most students exhibit good behavior, contributing to a calm and purposeful learning environment. However, there are instances of disruptive behavior that require further attention. The leadership team is aware of the need for consistent behavior management across the school and is actively working to address this.
The personal development curriculum is strong, offering enrichment days that allow students to explore various themes in depth. The curriculum reflects the increasing diversity of the school community, preparing students to be responsible citizens. However, there is a need for a more effective system to assess students' understanding of the personal development knowledge being taught.
Career education is integrated throughout the students' time at the school, ensuring they receive guidance on future pathways, including technical education and apprenticeships. The sixth form students report feeling well-supported by staff in achieving their ambitions. The school promotes a strong sense of community, with staff and students collaborating to create an inclusive environment.
Leaders prioritize staff well-being and provide comprehensive training for new teachers. They maintain an accurate understanding of the school's performance and provide governors with detailed information to support their oversight. However, there is room for improvement in the level of challenge provided by governors to the school's leadership.
The safeguarding arrangements at Notre Dame High School are effective, with robust systems in place to protect students. Staff receive high-quality training to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, ensuring that students receive the support they need. The school adapts its personal development curriculum to address local safeguarding risks, helping students understand the challenges they may face.
In summary, Notre Dame High School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in behavior management and the analysis of assessment data, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
