Woking High School, located in Horsell, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection from December 3 to 4, 2019. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils express enjoyment in attending and take pride in their institution. Relationships among pupils and staff are strong, creating a familial atmosphere. The high quality of pastoral care is frequently praised by parents, carers, and students alike, contributing to a sense of safety and well-being within the school community. Pupils feel supported and know there are trusted adults available to discuss any issues they may face.
The teaching standards at Woking High School are commendable, with most pupils benefiting from high-quality instruction. Students appreciate the support they receive from staff, particularly during critical periods such as mock examinations. The school promotes diligent and independent work habits among pupils, who generally exhibit excellent behavior in lessons. Inspectors noted a relaxed and friendly atmosphere throughout the school, with bullying and poor behavior being rare occurrences.
Woking High School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, encouraging pupils to engage in clubs and other opportunities outside of regular lessons. The school values pupil input in decision-making processes, exemplified by initiatives to reduce plastic use within the school environment. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, integrating both academic and vocational elements. Curriculum leaders have thoughtfully designed the learning pathways, ensuring that pupils grasp essential concepts and their interconnections, particularly in subjects like science. However, there are some areas where misconceptions may arise due to less organized curriculum delivery.
All pupils study the full national curriculum during key stage three, and at key stage four, they have the freedom to choose from a broad range of subjects. The school organizes educational visits and enrichment activities, enhancing the learning experience. The ‘day 11 timetable’ allows pupils to participate in various activities that broaden their horizons, while many also engage in sports, music, and leadership development opportunities.
Teachers at Woking High School demonstrate strong subject knowledge and present information in engaging ways. They effectively assess pupil understanding and adapt their teaching accordingly. Most pupils achieve well, with examination results surpassing national averages. Recent efforts to support disadvantaged pupils have yielded positive outcomes, as these students have shown improved performance in their examinations.
Despite these strengths, leaders acknowledge the need for further improvement, particularly regarding pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff require additional training to better adapt their teaching methods to support these pupils effectively. Leaders are actively working to ensure that interventions are impactful and that all pupils achieve their potential.
The school is well-led, with leaders committed to continuous improvement. The entire school community shares a vision for excellence, and staff feel supported in their roles. Safeguarding measures are robust, with all staff taking responsibility for pupil safety. The designated safeguarding lead maintains meticulous records, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly. Parents report that their children feel safe at school, and pupils know where to seek help if needed.
In summary, Woking High School is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging environment for its pupils. While there are areas for growth, particularly in supporting pupils with special educational needs, the school demonstrates a strong commitment to academic excellence and pupil well-being.
