Callington Community College, located in Callington, Cornwall, underwent an inspection on January 10 and 11, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The college has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Callington Community College feel welcomed and valued as individuals. Attendance is generally good, and students are punctual. Positive relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a supportive learning environment. Many sixth-form students expressed their decision to remain at the college due to the strong connections they have with staff, who demonstrate genuine care for their well-being. The college has raised expectations for student performance, and most pupils are eager to learn and take pride in being part of the school community. Behavior is commendable, with poor conduct not disrupting learning, and staff are committed to treating students fairly.
Instances of bullying are infrequent, and both pupils and parents believe that staff address any occurrences promptly. The college promotes respect among students, fostering an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds are treated with dignity. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the variety of extracurricular clubs available, which encompass sports, music, and academic development.
The curriculum at Callington Community College is broad and ambitious, with a notable increase in the number of pupils opting to study a language at key stage four. This shift has led to more students pursuing the English Baccalaureate, thereby engaging with a comprehensive curriculum for a longer duration. The qualifications offered to sixth-form students align well with their interests and future aspirations.
Teachers leverage their strong subject knowledge to engage pupils effectively, ensuring that lessons are aligned with the ambitious curriculum. Students in the sixth form display enthusiasm for their studies and are eager to share their knowledge. While most subjects involve regular assessments to gauge pupil understanding, there are instances where gaps in learning are not consistently identified, particularly among key stage three students. This can lead to some pupils retaining inaccurate information or lacking confidence in their knowledge.
Although teachers are dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, there is room for improvement in adapting the curriculum to better meet these students' needs. Leaders are aware of this challenge and are actively working to enhance support for pupils with SEND. The college has initiated efforts to foster a love of reading among all students, although this initiative is still in the early stages of implementation.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior, adhering to school rules and receiving support when needed to improve their conduct. The school environment is calm, and students feel safe. The college provides valuable information regarding careers and educational opportunities, meeting the requirements of provider access legislation.
Leadership at Callington Community College is characterized by a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development. Leaders are responsive to the needs of staff and implement changes effectively. Staff members report positively on the support they receive, and high-quality training is available to help them succeed in their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at the college are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff regarding pupil safety. Leaders act swiftly to address any concerns, ensuring that pupils learn how to keep themselves safe from prevalent risks in the local area. Overall, while the college has made commendable progress, there are specific areas where further improvements can enhance the educational experience for all students.
