St Clement’s High School, located in Terrington St Clement, Norfolk, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place on April 19 and 20, 2023. Pupils at St Clement’s value the strong community ethos and the positive relationships they have with both staff and peers. They actively engage in a variety of enrichment opportunities that help develop their character and interests, with recent trips to London, Berlin, and New York being particularly well-received. These experiences have enhanced their understanding and passion for their subjects.
In the classroom, pupils feel well-supported and appreciate the assistance they receive to excel academically. Lessons are generally orderly, with high expectations set for behavior and achievement. While most pupils maintain focus, a small number who struggle with attention are quickly redirected to their learning. Bullying is infrequent, and pupils feel safe, confident that staff will address any issues that arise. However, there are instances where a minority of pupils make inappropriate comments, indicating a need for further attention to respect among peers.
The school leadership has developed an ambitious curriculum aimed at helping pupils achieve their best. Recognizing the importance of language learning, significant advancements have been made, including the introduction of Spanish, which has led to an increase in pupils studying languages. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively plan lessons to ensure that most pupils succeed. They utilize questioning techniques well and adapt their explanations to meet pupils' needs, allowing them to keep pace with their peers.
Leaders are also enhancing their assessment practices to better support pupil achievement. In subjects like art and Spanish, teachers are proactive in identifying pupils' knowledge and skills, providing timely feedback that helps correct misunderstandings. This approach supports all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, in meeting curriculum demands. However, there are areas for improvement, as some teachers do not consistently provide sufficiently challenging work to deepen pupils' understanding.
The school has a well-developed enrichment program that many pupils participate in, including sports clubs and competitions. Pupils show respect for individuals of different backgrounds, although there is a need for greater mutual respect regarding gender and sexual orientation, as some inappropriate comments have been reported.
Leaders prioritize the best interests of pupils, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities. Most staff and parents express positive views about the school's leadership. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with well-trained staff who are confident in reporting concerns. Pupils understand how to stay safe both online and offline.
To improve, the school must address the disrespectful comments made by a small number of pupils regarding gender and sexual orientation, ensuring that all concerning behaviors are reported and addressed. Additionally, some teachers need to enhance their methods for checking pupils' understanding and providing appropriate support to ensure all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs, learn effectively. Overall, St Clement’s High School demonstrates a commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching educational environment while recognizing areas for growth.
