Esher Church of England High School is recognized as a good school, continuing to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for its pupils. The school fosters a strong sense of community, underpinned by its Christian ethos and core values of wisdom, hope, community, and dignity. Pupils express that they feel safe and well cared for, demonstrating kindness and respect towards one another. The atmosphere within the school is positive, with good-natured conduct observed throughout. Visitors are welcomed warmly, and lessons are conducted in a calm and orderly manner. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, addressing any incidents of bullying promptly and effectively.
The curriculum is well-structured, ambitious, and designed to build on prior learning. Older pupils appreciate the connections made between subjects, and reading for pleasure is emphasized, with dedicated sessions that encourage discussion and critical thinking about literature. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, subject clubs, and opportunities for involvement in school productions. Additionally, partnerships with organizations in Zambia enhance the school's outreach efforts and charitable initiatives.
Pastoral support is a priority, with a focus on the mental health and well-being of students. The school actively seeks feedback from pupils to improve its support systems. Leaders have developed a curriculum that aligns with national standards while also personalizing content to meet the needs of all pupils. The increasing number of pupils entering for the English Baccalaureate reflects the school’s commitment to enhancing language education.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The personal, social, health, and citizenship education curriculum lacks sufficient sequencing, which affects the coherence of the overall educational experience. The school recognizes the need to enhance the planning of this curriculum to ensure it is age-appropriate and effectively sequenced. Furthermore, the assessment practices, while regular, show variability in quality, indicating a need for more consistent evaluation methods.
Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs receive effective support, with teachers employing various strategies to assist their learning. The school has identified specific groups, such as low-attaining boys, and has implemented targeted interventions to engage them more effectively in their studies. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, attendance rates have improved, surpassing the national average, and behavior incidents are decreasing.
Leadership at the school is strong and purposeful, grounded in Christian values. Staff feel supported in their roles, and professional development opportunities are tailored to meet individual needs. The governing body demonstrates a solid understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring compliance with statutory duties and maintaining a robust safeguarding culture.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with comprehensive training for staff and clear policies in place. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and the school prioritizes their well-being. Overall, Esher Church of England High School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement in various areas to enhance the learning experience for all students.
