Admiral Lord Nelson School, located in Portsmouth, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 28 and 29, 2022. The school is characterized by its commitment to inclusivity and the determination of its leaders to help students achieve their best. The curriculum offered is broad, providing a wide range of subjects that cater to the diverse needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school environment is described as calm and supportive, fostering a sense of safety and community among students. Pupils exhibit good behavior and express confidence in the staff's ability to address any incidents of bullying effectively. The strong family ethos within the school community contributes to the overall welfare of the students.
High aspirations are set for all pupils, with older students actively supporting their younger peers, particularly during tutor time. Parents and carers appreciate the support provided by staff, which helps to build positive relationships that enhance students' self-esteem and academic success. The school ensures that all pupils have access to a variety of experiences that inspire them, including sports, music, and leadership activities. Following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school has reinstated visits and extracurricular activities that were previously suspended.
Leaders at Admiral Lord Nelson School have a clear vision for what they want pupils to learn and achieve. They have designed a comprehensive and ambitious curriculum that allows students to build on their knowledge progressively. Teachers are attentive to the order in which they present subject content, ensuring that pupils can connect new information with what they have previously learned. Regular assessments are conducted to monitor pupil progress, enabling teachers to provide additional support where necessary. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, implementing strategies to assist those who may have fallen behind during the pandemic.
Pupils with special educational needs are well-supported and are encouraged to be ambitious about their futures. They enjoy positive relationships with staff and have access to the same curriculum as their peers, including those attending the on-site support center. The school prioritizes personal development, offering a range of events alongside the academic curriculum to ensure full participation from all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged. Recent initiatives, such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, exemplify the school's commitment to preparing students for life in modern Britain.
The governing body is well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for development. They have enhanced their skills through training and recruitment, allowing them to effectively support the school's improvement plans. However, the increasing demands on key staff due to rising pupil numbers necessitate ongoing attention to ensure that roles and responsibilities are managed effectively.
The safeguarding arrangements at Admiral Lord Nelson School are robust, with leaders conducting necessary checks on staff and providing regular training. Clear procedures are in place for reporting concerns, and safeguarding is a high priority within the school. Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils who require support and make timely referrals to external agencies when necessary.
Overall, Admiral Lord Nelson School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and safeguarding. The school is well-positioned to maintain its high standards while addressing the challenges posed by increasing pupil numbers and the ongoing impact of the pandemic.