Dealing Fields High School, located in Hanwell, London, has been recognized for its good overall effectiveness following an inspection in June 2019. The school, which operates under the Twyford Church of England Academies Trust, has made significant strides since its establishment in 2016. The leadership and management of the school have been rated as outstanding, reflecting the commitment of the headteacher and the governing body to foster a strong educational environment. The school has cultivated a sense of community and inclusivity, despite the challenges posed by temporary accommodation.
The school’s ethos is deeply rooted in the trust’s Christian values, which are integrated into the curriculum. The 10:10 ethic encourages pupil leadership and community service, promoting a culture of respect and high expectations. Teachers are dedicated and knowledgeable, employing effective assessment strategies to monitor pupil progress. This approach allows for tailored support, enabling pupils to reflect on their learning and improve their work consistently across subjects.
Pupils at Dealing Fields High School demonstrate a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed. The majority make good progress, with many taking pride in their appearance and showing respect for one another. The school emphasizes high academic standards, particularly in key stage three, focusing on subjects that facilitate the English Baccalaureate. The curriculum is further enriched by physical education, art, and music, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
The school has effective safeguarding procedures in place, ensuring that pupils feel safe and know whom to approach for support. The pastoral system is robust, contributing to a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive. Additional funding is allocated to support pupils during study time and to promote equality of opportunity in school activities. However, the school has identified literacy improvement as a key priority, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those who are lower attainers. Some actions taken to support these groups have not been sufficiently targeted, leading to slower progress for certain pupils.
Governance at Dealing Fields High School is strong, with governors actively involved in supporting the school’s vision and ensuring high-quality education. They are aware of the challenges ahead, particularly with the transition to a permanent site, and are planning accordingly. The school’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident in its strategic planning and the high aspirations set for all pupils.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment is rated as good, with teachers implementing a range of strategies to engage pupils and support their learning. Regular assessments inform planning, allowing for adjustments to meet the diverse needs of pupils. While the majority of pupils are diligent and engaged, there are concerns regarding the progress of some pupils with SEND, who may require more targeted interventions to catch up with their peers.
Overall, Dealing Fields High School is a good school with outstanding leadership and management. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and develop personally. The commitment to inclusivity and high expectations is evident throughout the school community, contributing to the positive outcomes for pupils. The school continues to strive for improvement, particularly in literacy, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to succeed and access the full curriculum.
