Heritage High School, located in Clowne, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, underwent an inspection on 11 and 12 October 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The headteacher, Debbie Elsdon, leads the school, which is part of The Two Counties Trust, overseen by CEO Wesley Davies and a board of trustees chaired by Karen Potts.
The school environment is characterized by a strong commitment from staff to ensure the best outcomes for pupils. High aspirations are evident, with a focus on the school’s core values of ambition, teamwork, honesty, and kindness. Pupils are generally polite and friendly, engaging positively with adults. Most students report feeling safe and happy, knowing they have trusted adults to turn to for support with any issues they may face.
Heritage High School maintains high expectations for all students, with clear routines, rewards, and consequences in place. The majority of pupils strive to meet these expectations, demonstrating good behavior both in lessons and around the school. While there are occasional instances of poor behavior, staff address these swiftly. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, drama, and cookery, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. The active student leadership team allows pupils to engage with the local community, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility.
The curriculum at Heritage High School is well-structured and ambitious, designed to ensure that pupils acquire essential knowledge and skills. Subject leaders have identified core content, and the curriculum is progressive, allowing students to build on their prior knowledge. However, the impact of these improvements on pupil progress and attainment at the end of key stage four has yet to be fully realized. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ a consistent teaching approach, although there are instances where expectations are not clearly communicated, leading to incomplete tasks by some pupils. The school recognizes the need for further development in certain curriculum areas.
Reading is prioritized, with staff encouraging pupils to read widely. Those who struggle with reading receive timely support, and all pupils are motivated to develop a love for reading through diverse and enriching book selections. The school ensures that teachers are well-equipped to meet the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with most adapting their teaching effectively.
Positive relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a conducive learning environment. Most pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards their learning, although some frequently excuse themselves from lessons, missing critical learning opportunities. Leaders are aware of this issue and have plans to address it. Attendance is generally good.
The school provides well-planned personal development programs, including personal, social, and health education, which prepare pupils for life in modern Britain. Pupils understand the importance of protected characteristics and their relevance in their lives. Staff morale is generally high, with many expressing pride in their work, although some feel that workload considerations could be improved.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school is aware of areas needing improvement, particularly in the consistent use of assessment to identify gaps in knowledge and understanding. Addressing the issue of pupils frequently excusing themselves from lessons is also a priority. Overall, Heritage High School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
