Putteridge High School, located in Luton, Bedfordshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection in June 2019. The school operates under the Chiltern Learning Trust and has demonstrated significant improvements in various areas since its establishment. The leadership and management of the school are effective, with the headteacher and senior leaders maintaining high expectations and a clear vision for continuous improvement. The governing body plays a crucial role in providing strategic support and holding school leaders accountable for pupil performance and behavior.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment at Putteridge High School is also rated as good. Teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge and employ effective questioning techniques to enhance pupil understanding. The school has established robust systems for assessing pupil progress, which contribute to a positive learning environment where pupils are encouraged to take risks and learn from their mistakes. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in providing sufficient challenge for the most able pupils to ensure they reach their full potential.
Pupils' personal development, behavior, and welfare are prioritized, with the school fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity. Pupils feel safe and secure, demonstrating a strong understanding of how to keep themselves safe in various situations, including online environments. The school has implemented effective measures to promote emotional health and resilience, and pupils engage in a wide range of enrichment activities that contribute to their overall development.
Outcomes for pupils are improving, with rising standards across many subjects. The school’s performance data indicates that pupils are making good progress, and the strategies in place for supporting disadvantaged pupils are beginning to yield positive results. The school is committed to enhancing literacy and numeracy skills across the curriculum, ensuring that all pupils are well-prepared for their future educational and career pathways.
Despite the overall positive findings, the school recognizes the need for further refinement in its strategic plans, particularly regarding the support for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities. Communication with parents of these pupils also requires improvement to ensure they are fully informed about their children's progress and support.
Attendance rates have improved and are now in line with national averages, although persistent absence remains a concern for some disadvantaged pupils. The school is actively working to address this issue. The commitment to providing high-quality careers advice ensures that pupils are well-prepared for their next steps after leaving school.
In summary, Putteridge High School is a good educational institution that has made significant strides in leadership, teaching quality, and pupil outcomes. The school is dedicated to continuous improvement and is focused on addressing the areas identified for further development to enhance the educational experience for all its pupils. The supportive environment, combined with effective leadership and a commitment to high standards, positions the school well for future success.
