Darwen Aldridge Enterprise Studio is recognized as a good school, providing a supportive environment where students can thrive and succeed. The school has a positive atmosphere, with many pupils overcoming previous negative experiences in education. Students express enjoyment in attending the school and appreciate the strong relationships they have with staff, which fosters their self-confidence. The high expectations set by leaders and staff encourage pupils to respect differences and engage positively in their learning. Most students demonstrate good behavior and are dedicated to their studies, while also socializing well during breaks.
During the inspection, pupils reported feeling safe and confident that staff would address any concerns they might have. The school offers a range of support for mental health and well-being, and incidents of bullying are reported to be rare, with staff acting promptly to resolve any issues. The curriculum includes work-related courses in creative and digital media, providing students with valuable experiences that prepare them for the workforce. Many sixth-form students pursue careers in these fields after graduation. Extracurricular activities, such as football, photography, and gardening clubs, have also resumed, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
Parents and carers have expressed high levels of satisfaction with the support their children receive, with most recommending the school to others. Leaders and governors are ambitious for all students, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs. The curriculum is broad, encompassing both academic and vocational subjects, and most curriculum plans are well-structured, allowing teachers to build on students' knowledge effectively. As a result, students generally achieve well and are prepared for their next educational or career steps.
However, some recent changes to the curriculum, particularly in subjects like science, are still being implemented, and it is too early to assess their full impact on student learning. Teachers effectively use assessment strategies to identify and address gaps in knowledge, and students have opportunities to revisit prior learning, particularly in core subjects. The school has made significant efforts to promote reading, investing in high-quality texts and enhancing the library, which has positively influenced students' vocabulary development.
While the school is calm and welcoming, with students displaying politeness and attentiveness, there are areas for improvement. Some aspects of the personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum, particularly regarding healthy relationships and consent, require more detailed planning and implementation. Leaders are aware of these gaps and are working to enhance the curriculum further.
Staff at the school report high levels of job satisfaction, noting that leaders are considerate of their workload and well-being. The training provided by the Aldridge Education Trust has been beneficial in developing staff expertise. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of abuse and to manage referrals appropriately. The school prioritizes pupil safety and collaborates with external agencies to support vulnerable students.
Overall, Darwen Aldridge Enterprise Studio continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment, with a commitment to improving and adapting its curriculum to meet the needs of all students. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths and address areas for development, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
