The Brakenhale School, located in Bracknell, Berkshire, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 21 and 22, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Camilla Douglas, the school operates within the Greenshaw Learning Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The school has established high expectations for student achievement, and most pupils are performing well academically. Students appreciate the diverse range of subjects available to them and receive valuable guidance in selecting their options and planning for future careers. Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) students, along with those facing other disadvantages, are provided with extra support to help them succeed, particularly during transitional periods. However, attendance rates for disadvantaged pupils remain a concern, limiting their access to the full range of educational opportunities.
The school emphasizes positive behavior and provides support to ensure students meet these expectations. For instance, spare equipment is made available each morning for those who may not have their own. In the classroom, students engage in focused learning, benefiting from an environment with minimal disruptions. When behavioral issues arise, the school intervenes to help students improve. The overall atmosphere is calm and orderly, contributing to a sense of safety among pupils, although some students express dissatisfaction with certain behavioral management systems.
The curriculum at The Brakenhale School is broad and ambitious, with an increase in students studying modern foreign languages and triple sciences. In key stage three, pupils explore a variety of creative arts and design and technology subjects. School leaders have clearly defined learning objectives, ensuring that students understand the knowledge required to produce high-quality work and tackle challenging questions. Teachers are subject experts who effectively utilize lesson time to enhance student learning.
The school has implemented strategies to quickly identify the needs of pupils with SEND, creating Pupil Passports that guide teachers in adapting lessons accordingly. These strategies are well integrated into classroom practices, and students can articulate how they are supported. Additional interventions, including mental health support, are available when necessary, and the school collaborates with external agencies to provide comprehensive assistance. Reading is prioritized, with students starting each day by reading a challenging book in their tutor groups.
Despite the strong support provided within the school, attendance issues persist, particularly among disadvantaged students, hindering their academic performance. The school has taken steps to address attendance concerns, but further improvement is needed. The personal, social, health, and economic education (PSHE) curriculum is well-structured, incorporating a thorough program for relationship, sex, and health education, which is adapted to meet the evolving needs of students. The careers program is comprehensive, ensuring students receive guidance from various employers and learn about apprenticeship and technical qualification options.
While the PSHE and RSHE curriculum encourages reflection on personal views and moral questions, participation in extracurricular activities is currently low, indicating a need for the school to expand these opportunities to better meet student needs. The school and trust prioritize staff workload, with most teachers feeling supported by effective systems for managing their responsibilities. The Greenshaw Learning Trust plays an active role in the school, particularly during leadership transitions, ensuring that trustees are informed about student progress and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at The Brakenhale School are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment. However, the school must continue to work with parents to address attendance barriers and enhance student engagement in the full range of opportunities available. Overall, The Brakenhale School demonstrates a commitment to providing quality education and support for all its students while recognizing areas for improvement.
