Ellowes Hall Sports College has undergone significant improvements, as highlighted in its recent inspection report. The school has fostered a positive culture shift, leading to increased happiness and safety among pupils. The expectations for behavior and academic achievement have been raised, and most students are responding positively to these higher standards. They take pride in their work and appreciate the prompt feedback they receive, which encourages them to improve.
Pupils have noted improvements in behavior, with many recognizing the positive changes, although a small number still struggle to meet the new expectations. Confidence in school leadership to address behavioral issues is growing among students. The school offers numerous opportunities for involvement in extracurricular activities, with junior prefects helping to ensure smooth operations during assemblies. Sixth-form students benefit from a variety of enrichment opportunities that align with their personal interests and career goals, including sports academies and community work.
The curriculum at Ellowes Hall is well-structured and accessible to all pupils, with leaders ensuring that each subject has a comprehensive plan. The introduction of learning phases aids in building knowledge over time, and subject leaders collaborate effectively to create connections between subjects that enhance understanding. The implementation of the 'Ellowes Eight' principles of learning has raised the quality and consistency of lessons, allowing pupils to make good progress. Teachers utilize their strong subject knowledge to support student learning, although there are instances where checks on understanding could be more thorough to ensure all pupils are ready to progress.
Reading has been prioritized, with strategies in place to enhance pupils' reading skills and interest in literature. Leaders assess reading levels to identify those needing additional support, and interventions are in place to help weaker readers improve. Staff training has been provided to help identify pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can access the same curriculum as their peers. Individual targets are set for these pupils, and most teachers effectively use these targets to adapt lessons.
The sixth-form provision allows students to choose from a wide range of subjects across the trust, with a transition program in place to help them adjust to increased academic expectations. Students maintain connections with Ellowes Hall, benefiting from personalized support for their future pathways, including university applications and apprenticeships.
The school culture has noticeably improved, with positive feedback from staff, pupils, and parents regarding the changes implemented by the new headteacher. Attendance has improved, although a few pupils have yet to fully embrace the new standards of respect and behavior. Leaders are aware of these challenges and are working to ensure that all pupils feel valued and respected within the school community.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders conducting appropriate recruitment checks and providing staff with regular training on identifying risks to pupils. Pupils learn about safety through various educational programs, including input from external agencies.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that all teachers consistently check that pupils have fully grasped their learning before moving on. Additionally, addressing the behavior of a small number of pupils who have not adapted to the new culture is essential to ensure that all students feel respected and valued. Overall, Ellowes Hall Sports College is making commendable progress in its educational offerings and school environment.
