The Netherhall School, located in Cambridge, continues to be recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on March 5 and 6, 2024. Under the leadership of Principal Chris Tooley, the school is part of Anglian Learning, which provides additional oversight and support through its chief executive officer, Jonathan Culpin, and a board of trustees chaired by Helen Pain. The school is committed to preparing its pupils for successful and fulfilling lives, instilling high standards and expectations for all students, including those in the sixth form.
Pupils at The Netherhall School are encouraged to take on leadership roles and responsibilities, contributing to a positive school culture. The house system supports strong pastoral care, fostering trust between pupils and staff, and ensuring that students feel safe. While most pupils exhibit good behavior, attendance remains an area for improvement, as some students do not consistently demonstrate respect for others. The school actively works to address these issues and enhance the overall school environment.
Personal development is a key focus at The Netherhall School, with pupils having a voice in school matters through initiatives like the anti-bullying committee. The school is attentive to the needs of disadvantaged pupils, ensuring they have access to a wide range of opportunities. The curriculum is ambitious, with leaders setting high expectations that are reflected in the academic achievements of pupils. However, some curriculum plans require more precision to help teachers prioritize key knowledge effectively.
Teachers at The Netherhall School utilize their strong subject knowledge to present new concepts clearly and assess pupil understanding thoughtfully. This approach allows for timely support for those who need it, ensuring that all pupils can progress and achieve their desired qualifications. The school has introduced innovative programs for pupils requiring an adapted curriculum, enabling them to make strong progress. Most sixth form students successfully transition to university education.
The school is proactive in identifying and addressing the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff receive appropriate training to adapt their teaching effectively, and those in specially resourced provisions are well supported. The school has also prioritized fostering a love of reading, implementing well-planned interventions for pupils needing additional help.
Since the last inspection, The Netherhall School has made significant strides in improving behavior and attendance. The number of suspensions has decreased, and leaders have implemented strategies to help pupils learn from their mistakes. While attendance rates have improved, there is still work to be done to ensure all pupils benefit from the school's academic and pastoral support.
The sixth form is characterized by respectful relationships between students and staff, with a focus on personalized support that prepares students for independent learning. The wider curriculum and personal development opportunities are strengths of the school, with a variety of extracurricular activities available, including sports and the arts. Pupils engage enthusiastically in experiential learning opportunities.
The school maintains positive relationships within the community, providing staff with high-quality training and involving parents in initiatives like the I3ntegrate program. Leadership at all levels is effective, with the trust playing a crucial role in securing improvements. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are robust, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
To further enhance its effectiveness, The Netherhall School should focus on refining curriculum plans for clarity and improving attendance for all pupils. By addressing these areas, the school can continue to build on its successes and provide an excellent educational experience for its students.
