South Charnwood High School, located in Markfield, Leicestershire, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as a good school following its inspection in June 2019. The leadership and management of the school are rated as good, with leaders fostering a culture of ambition for both pupils and staff. They are dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for students academically and personally. The school has seen significant growth, with senior leaders and governors working collaboratively to oversee this progress. In 2018, pupils of all abilities made outstanding progress, particularly in English and mathematics, with results in science and humanities also exceeding national averages. Current pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, continue to achieve high standards across most subjects, and those with special educational needs and disabilities receive strong support.
The curriculum is well-structured to meet the needs of the pupils, and leaders prioritize reducing staff workload while promoting their well-being. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in evaluating the impact of actions taken and the use of additional government funding. A small minority of pupils engage in low-level disruption, which can hinder their learning experience. The quality of teaching is consistently strong, with teachers demonstrating expert subject knowledge. Nevertheless, some inconsistencies exist, where poor planning and low expectations can affect pupil learning. Pupils are generally confident and resilient learners, demonstrating a commitment to their education.
Pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors, with most securing sustained education, employment, or training after leaving Year 11. Their spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development is effectively promoted through a well-thought-out curriculum. While exclusions are low, there is a disproportionate number of pupils with special educational needs who continue to be excluded. Attendance rates are above the national average, but there is a concerning trend of regular absenteeism among disadvantaged pupils. Safeguarding records need to be more detailed and thorough to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils.
To further improve, the school needs to enhance the effectiveness of leadership and management by ensuring that leaders evaluate the impact of their actions more precisely and develop focused improvement plans. Addressing inconsistencies in teaching quality across subjects is essential, as is the rigorous review of safeguarding records. Additionally, efforts should be made to reduce the number of disadvantaged pupils who are frequently absent and to minimize low-level disruptions in classrooms.
The inspection team noted that the behaviour of pupils is generally good, with most following established routines and conducting themselves well. However, there are instances of low-level disruption in some lessons, particularly among boys. The school has implemented strategies to support pupils who fall behind, and there is a strong emphasis on preparing pupils for their next steps. The progress of disadvantaged pupils has improved, and while there are gaps in achievement, leaders are taking appropriate actions to address these issues.
Overall, South Charnwood High School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, with many expressing satisfaction with the support and education their children receive. The school’s leadership is aware of its strengths and weaknesses and is actively working towards continuous improvement.
