Isca is recognized as a good school, providing a calm and purposeful environment for learning. The school promotes the SPARK values, which emphasize safety, preparedness, active engagement, respect, and kindness. Most students are eager to meet these expectations, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere for pupils from diverse backgrounds. The school fosters understanding of different cultures and faiths, encouraging tolerance among students. Behavior in lessons is generally positive, with students moving around the school in a calm manner and arriving punctually to classes. Relationships between students and staff are respectful, and while bullying is not a major concern, some students feel that not all staff handle bullying incidents effectively.
Pupils have a voice in school matters, with leaders actively seeking their opinions and making changes based on their feedback. For instance, the enrichment curriculum is set to become more varied next year in response to student input. The school has an active student council, anti-bullying ambassadors, and various student-led groups, including an LGBTQ+ group. Students also participate in selecting reading materials for their tutoring sessions.
The curriculum at Isca is ambitious and rigorous, with most students pursuing qualifications in academic subjects that align with the English Baccalaureate. The school also offers vocational subjects, ensuring a broad educational experience. Reading is prioritized, with a guided reading program enhancing literacy and vocabulary for all students, particularly those who struggle with reading fluency. Staff are knowledgeable about supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, although some parents express concerns about the adequacy of support for their children.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and engage students in revisiting previously learned material to reinforce understanding. However, there are instances where gaps in learning are not consistently identified, which can hinder student progress. Established routines in lessons help students understand expectations and respond promptly to instructions. The school has clear behavior systems, ensuring that students who face disciplinary actions continue their learning without falling behind.
Leaders effectively support students' personal development, with all pupils learning first aid and engaging in community service. A variety of extracurricular clubs are available, and attendance is monitored to encourage participation from all students, including those with special educational needs or disadvantages. Career education begins in Year 7, helping students understand their future options, including pathways to apprenticeships and higher education.
Leaders are reflective and utilize gathered information to drive continuous improvement within the school. The collaboration between trustees and the local governing body ensures effective leadership. Staff appreciate the training provided and feel that their workloads are considered. The support from the multi-academy trust further alleviates staff workload, particularly for those in leadership roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at Isca are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of harm and take prompt action when concerns arise. Pupils are educated about safety, including online risks, and most know whom to approach if they have worries. Leaders conduct appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of appointed staff.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders need to ensure that learning checks identify knowledge gaps for all pupils, allowing for timely interventions. Additionally, improving communication with parents of students with special educational needs will help build confidence in the support provided by the school. Overall, Isca continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all students.
