Richmond School, located in North Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 18 and 19, 2022. The school is characterized by its vibrant atmosphere and strong connection to the local community. Leaders prioritize academic achievement, and pupils consistently perform well. Beyond academics, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, allowing students to explore their talents and interests. The variety of sports and performing arts clubs is notable, and the library serves as a central hub for students to engage in reading and games like chess. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the school provided numerous trips and experiences, including international exchanges and collaborations with local cultural institutions. Plans are in place to reinstate these opportunities for students.
Pupils at Richmond School are described as happy, courteous, and articulate. They are eager to share their experiences with inspectors, and the transition from primary to secondary school is well managed, as noted by Year 7 students and their parents. Many parents praised the school for its effective response to the challenges posed by COVID-19, highlighting the dedication of staff in delivering quality education remotely and providing pastoral support during this period.
The school excels in providing challenging and well-planned lessons. Leaders ensure that teachers are clear about learning objectives, and there is a focus on helping pupils understand and retain important vocabulary. Most lessons include checks on pupil understanding, although some lessons lack this consistency, which can hinder pupils' ability to articulate their learning. Leaders are currently working on developing effective assessment systems for Years 7 to 9 to ensure accurate evaluation of pupil knowledge across all subjects.
Richmond School is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Teaching assistants work closely with these pupils to facilitate their success, and teachers ensure that all students have access to practical subjects. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a respectful and orderly environment observed throughout the school. Pupils trust the staff to address any issues, including bullying, which is taken seriously by leaders.
The school provides comprehensive career guidance, which is considered a significant strength. Pupils receive personalized support to help them make informed choices about their futures, and teaching staff link career opportunities to the subjects studied. This robust career support is reflected in the positive outcomes for pupils after they leave school.
Richmond School demonstrates ambition for continuous improvement. Leaders are focused on enhancing the quality of education and broadening experiences for all pupils, particularly those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged. Staff feel supported by leadership, acknowledging efforts to consider their workload and well-being. The school has established a vigilant safeguarding culture, with clear procedures in place to protect pupils and ensure their safety.
The inspection highlighted that while the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all lessons consistently check pupil understanding. This focus on assessment will be a key area for the next inspection. Overall, Richmond School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, fostering both academic success and personal development.
