The Garibaldi School in Forest Town, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 6 and 7, 2023. The school provides a supportive and respectful environment for pupils from Year 7 through to the sixth form. Students are encouraged to embody the school’s values of pride, respect, and achievement, leading to a culture of politeness and friendliness. The leadership team is dedicated to developing pupils' character and ensuring they are well-prepared for future educational stages. Pupils feel safe and supported by staff, who are approachable and ready to assist.
The curriculum at The Garibaldi School is ambitious and designed to cater to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders maintain high expectations, which contribute to the overall success of the students. The school environment is calm and focused, with effective behavior management strategies in place. Instances of low-level disruption are addressed promptly, ensuring that learning is not hindered. When bullying occurs, staff respond swiftly, fostering a sense of security among pupils.
Students actively participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and various clubs, enhancing their school experience. The school’s curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to study a broad range of subjects, including the English Baccalaureate suite at key stage 4. Leaders have carefully organized the curriculum to ensure that essential knowledge is taught in a logical sequence, enabling pupils to build on their existing knowledge effectively.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ engaging teaching methods that facilitate understanding. They adapt their approaches to meet the needs of all learners, including those with SEND. However, in some subjects, there is a need for more consistent checking of pupils' understanding before introducing new concepts to prevent gaps in knowledge.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school. Support systems are in place for those who require assistance in managing their behavior. While attendance is generally good, some pupils do not attend as frequently as they should, which can impact their learning opportunities.
The school has a robust approach to safeguarding, ensuring that pupils are emotionally and physically safe. Leaders are proactive in monitoring pupil safety and work effectively with external organizations to provide necessary support. Staff receive regular training to identify and address potential risks to pupils.
The personal development program is integral to the school’s ethos, promoting confidence, resilience, and respect among pupils. The curriculum encourages students to engage with diverse perspectives and prepares them for life in modern Britain. Opportunities for talent development and career guidance are abundant, with sixth form students benefiting from volunteering programs and high-quality careers advice.
Governance at The Garibaldi School is strong, with governors actively holding leaders accountable. Staff express pride in their work and appreciate the consideration given to their workload. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent attendance and thorough assessment of pupils' prior knowledge before advancing in the curriculum. The school is committed to addressing these areas to enhance the educational experience for all students.
