Redhill School, located in Stourbridge, West Midlands, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection, conducted on June 25 and 26, 2024, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The headteacher, James Clayton, leads the school, which is part of the Stour Vale Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Rachel Salter and a board of trustees chaired by Joanne Williams.
The school has established a positive ethos that encourages students to strive for their best, emphasizing values such as kindness, honesty, and respect. From the outset, students in Year 7 participate in an outdoor retreat designed to foster strong relationships with peers and staff. This focus on relationship-building continues throughout their time at the school, contributing to a supportive and inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated. Students express pride in their school, which offers numerous leadership opportunities, including organizing events that promote cultural awareness and understanding.
Redhill School provides a broad range of extracurricular activities, including sports, drama, and creative writing clubs, which are well-attended by students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has made significant strides in improving student behaviour, aided by effective collaboration among staff and across the trust. Teachers are knowledgeable in their subjects and have developed a comprehensive curriculum that revisits key concepts to deepen students' understanding. However, there are inconsistencies in how assessment is utilized across subjects, leading to some gaps in knowledge for certain students.
The school has implemented strategies to support students who struggle with reading, but the effectiveness of these measures is still being evaluated, as some students are not progressing as quickly as desired. Students with special educational needs are well-supported and actively participate in all aspects of school life, benefiting from tailored adaptations in lessons. The overall atmosphere in the school is positive, with students demonstrating enthusiasm for learning and respect for one another.
The personal development programme is well-structured, covering essential topics such as online safety and healthy relationships. The school also engages students in discussions about current affairs and provides career guidance through dedicated events and guest speakers. However, there is recognition that further work is needed to enhance the careers programme and raise students' aspirations for their future pathways.
Safeguarding measures at Redhill School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The inspection highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in the consistent use of assessment to identify and address gaps in knowledge before introducing new material. Additionally, the school is encouraged to refine its reading support strategies to ensure all students become confident readers. Overall, Redhill School is making commendable progress in its educational provision, fostering a nurturing environment that prepares students well for their future endeavors.
