Whalley Range 11-18 High School, located in Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 27 and 28, 2022. The school serves a diverse population of girls from various backgrounds, fostering an environment where cultural differences are appreciated and understood. This diversity contributes to a strong sense of tolerance and respect among students. The staff at Whalley Range maintain high expectations for student behavior, resulting in a well-disciplined atmosphere both in classrooms and throughout the school grounds. Students express feeling safe and supported, knowing they can approach staff with any concerns, and incidents of bullying are reported to be infrequent and effectively managed.
The leadership team, including trustees and governors, has set ambitious goals for student achievement. All students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive a high-quality education that enables them to excel. The school offers a comprehensive personal development curriculum that equips students with essential life skills. Recent initiatives, such as a Year 9 trip to a local theater, exemplify the enriching experiences provided to students.
The curriculum at Whalley Range is broad and balanced, allowing students at key stages four and five to select subjects that align with their interests and aspirations. The sixth form has seen significant growth, offering a mix of academic and vocational courses. Subject leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to ensure knowledge is built progressively, and teachers demonstrate strong subject expertise. However, there are instances where some teachers do not fully utilize assessment strategies to gauge student understanding, which can lead to uneven learning outcomes.
Behavior among students is generally positive, with recent changes to the pastoral system contributing to a calmer school environment. While most students report respectful interactions, a small minority feel uncertain about the implementation of the behavior policy and some staff decisions regarding behavior management. The school has made strides in supporting students with special educational needs, ensuring they can access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. Additionally, pupils who speak English as an additional language receive tailored support, enabling them to progress effectively.
Reading is prioritized across all subjects, with teachers encouraging students to develop their reading skills and expand their vocabulary. The school promotes a culture of reading, and arrangements are in place to assist those at the early stages of literacy. The personal development curriculum includes comprehensive relationships and sex education, with external experts contributing to sensitive topics. Students appreciate these lessons and the career guidance provided, which helps them aspire to further education.
Staff members feel supported by leadership in managing their workload, and there is a collaborative effort to enhance the quality of education. Governors are well-informed and hold leaders accountable for school performance. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with a strong culture of safety evident throughout the school. Staff are well-trained to recognize and address safeguarding concerns, and they work effectively with external agencies to support students and their families.
Overall, Whalley Range 11-18 High School continues to provide a good educational experience, with a commitment to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths while addressing areas for improvement, particularly in the consistent application of assessment strategies to enhance student learning outcomes.
