West Exe School, located in Exeter, has undergone its first inspection since joining the Ted Wragg Trust in March 2018. The inspection, conducted on June 7 and 8, 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has established a culture centered around the values of community, opportunity, and success, which is reflected in the high expectations set by the leadership for both staff and pupils. This ambitious approach ensures that pupils are well-prepared for their learning, with established routines that contribute to a positive educational environment.
Pupils at West Exe School exhibit politeness and respect, taking pride in their learning experiences. They benefit from numerous opportunities for leadership, participating in initiatives such as the school parliament and various mentoring roles. The school promotes a safe environment where bullying is addressed promptly, and pupils are educated on respectful behavior and healthy relationships. Mental health awareness is prioritized, with resources available for pupils seeking support. However, some students have reported experiencing derogatory language, which the school is actively addressing.
The curriculum at West Exe School is ambitious and well-structured, with a coherent mapping of subjects over five years. The Year 8 foundation option program offers a diverse range of courses, and teachers effectively model learning while ensuring that pupils revisit essential knowledge. Reading is emphasized throughout the curriculum, with targeted support for those in the early stages of learning. The school collaborates with primary institutions to facilitate a smooth transition for new pupils, particularly those needing additional reading support.
Behavior in classrooms is generally orderly, with pupils focused on their learning. However, attendance remains a challenge, particularly among disadvantaged pupils, and the school is implementing strategies to improve this. Most pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive adequate support, although there are instances where classroom support lacks sufficient detail, impacting their learning.
The West Exe Baccalaureate program integrates personal, social, and health education, alongside religious education, delivered by subject specialists. Pupils engage in discussions on moral and social issues, enhancing their critical thinking skills. The school offers a comprehensive careers program from Year 7 to Year 11, including employer visits and elective subjects that enrich the curriculum.
Professional development for staff is prioritized, with a coaching program in place to ensure a consistent approach to curriculum delivery. Recent changes in the leadership structure have been positively received, with leaders adapting to their new roles and responsibilities. The school benefits from collaboration with other local trust schools, although some resistance to cultural changes has been noted.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with visible leadership and comprehensive staff training ensuring that pupils are well-informed about safety and well-being. The school provides various resources to support mental health, including a well-being room and a café for students seeking a supportive environment.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that teachers effectively utilize information about individual pupil needs, particularly for those with special educational needs. Additionally, addressing the attendance issues among disadvantaged pupils requires a more coherent strategy to enhance the impact of existing efforts. Overall, West Exe School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
