The Catholic High School in Chester has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 30 and December 1, 2021. The school provides a positive environment where pupils, including those in the sixth form, achieve well and enjoy their educational experience. Strong relationships between pupils and teachers are evident, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect. The high expectations set by teachers contribute to the overall success of the students, who benefit from a well-structured curriculum that supports effective learning for all, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils feel safe, happy, and content within the school environment. They report that instances of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively, and there is a strong culture of acceptance and support among students. The school has made significant strides in enhancing behavior expectations, with pupils consistently adhering to established routines, resulting in good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school.
In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, school leaders have strengthened the personal development curriculum to better address the social and emotional needs of pupils. The reintroduction of extracurricular activities has allowed students to explore their interests and talents, with many expressing excitement about upcoming trips and tours.
The leadership team, including senior leaders and staff, is committed to providing a high-quality education and has high aspirations for all pupils. The governing body is actively involved, offering effective support and challenge to ensure that the school's ambitions are met. Staff morale is high, with teachers appreciating the efforts made to reduce their workload and prioritize well-being.
The curriculum is ambitious, allowing pupils to study a diverse range of subjects. Leaders are working to increase the number of pupils studying the English Baccalaureate suite, which includes a modern foreign language. While most subjects have well-organized knowledge frameworks, there are a few areas where the curriculum planning could be improved to ensure that all pupils develop a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Teachers generally deliver the curriculum effectively, utilizing their subject expertise to provide clear explanations and assessments that help identify gaps in pupils' knowledge. This approach is particularly evident in the sixth form, where students demonstrate strong learning outcomes. However, some pupils with special educational needs do not progress as well as they could due to inconsistent use of information by some teachers to support their learning.
The school has implemented effective measures to support pupils struggling with reading, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to catch up. The refurbished library has become increasingly popular, promoting a love for reading among students.
Leaders prioritize the personal development of pupils alongside academic achievement, offering a well-planned personal development curriculum and a variety of enrichment activities. Pupils are generally well-mannered and courteous, contributing to a positive learning environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at The Catholic High School are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding in place. Staff receive comprehensive training to recognize and address potential risks, ensuring that pupils receive the support they need.
To improve further, the school should focus on refining the curriculum in a small number of subjects to ensure that essential knowledge is clearly identified and effectively sequenced. Additionally, it is important for leaders to ensure that all teachers understand how to utilize information about pupils with special educational needs to enhance their learning experiences. Overall, The Catholic High School in Chester continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a commitment to ongoing improvement.
