On 3 May 2023, an urgent inspection of Hornchurch High School was conducted due to concerns regarding pupil behavior. The inspection, carried out under section 8 of the Education Act 2005, aimed to assess the current standards of behavior and attitudes within the school. The findings indicate that the leadership team, including a newly appointed executive headteacher and senior leaders, has effectively maintained high standards of behavior since the previous inspection.
The new leadership has established clear expectations for pupil conduct, attitudes to learning, and attendance. They have reviewed and revised behavior management policies, swiftly addressing areas of concern. As a result, pupils generally exhibit calm and orderly behavior in classrooms, actively engaging in their learning. Most pupils respond positively to teachers and listen respectfully to one another, contributing to a conducive learning environment. However, some inconsistencies in behavior management remain, with reports of occasional disruptions depending on the class. While some pupils perceive the new behavior approach as overly strict, many acknowledge that it has led to reduced disruptions and improved learning conditions.
Pupils navigate the school premises calmly during transitions and break times, demonstrating orderly conduct. They follow established routines, queue patiently for food, and engage positively with peers during lunch. Staff supervision is effective, fostering professional relationships between pupils and staff. Attendance and punctuality have become priorities for the leadership team, resulting in significant improvements in attendance rates. The attendance team intervenes promptly when pupils are absent, and regular meetings with pastoral leaders ensure that attendance and behavior are closely monitored.
The school maintains detailed records of bullying incidents, and pupils understand that bullying is not tolerated. They feel confident in reporting any concerns, although some may hesitate to do so due to fear of being perceived as 'telling' on peers. The leadership is aware of this issue and is working to address it. The curriculum promotes respect for all individuals, regardless of background, and is reinforced through well-being lessons. However, some pupils express a desire for deeper exploration of topics related to race and sexuality, prompting leaders to develop a new PSHE curriculum for implementation in September 2023.
The multi-academy trust has taken effective steps to strengthen leadership, including the appointment of new leaders with expertise in behavior management and curriculum development. The trust and the new leadership team share high expectations and are collaborating to ensure these standards are embedded throughout the school.
While the leadership has made significant strides in improving behavior and attitudes, there are areas for further development. Some staff inconsistently apply the new behavior management systems, leading to a perception among some pupils that the rules are too strict. Leaders are encouraged to continue their efforts to achieve consistency and a shared understanding of the new behavior approach. Additionally, addressing pupils' reluctance to report bullying or derogatory language will be crucial in fostering a safe and supportive school environment. Overall, the inspection findings reflect a positive trajectory for Hornchurch High School, with effective leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement in pupil behavior and attitudes.
