Lubavitch House School (Senior Girls) is a small secondary school located in Stamford Hill, London. The school has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy and has received a positive evaluation across various aspects of its operations. The overall effectiveness of the school is rated as good, reflecting the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision, all of which are also rated as good.
Pupils at Lubavitch House School describe their experience as being part of a family, where a culture of care is evident. The school promotes curiosity and encourages students to ask questions and express themselves confidently. The behavior of pupils is generally calm, fostering an environment conducive to learning. Older students take on leadership roles, supporting younger peers and organizing events, which contributes to a strong sense of community.
The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and respect, with instances of bullying being rare. Pupils feel safe and know they can report any concerns, which are addressed promptly by teachers. The curriculum is well-designed and ambitious, allowing students to enjoy their studies. However, there are some subjects where the depth of learning could be improved, as not all areas are as carefully considered as others.
The school has made significant strides in providing a broad range of courses and qualifications for sixth-form students, enhancing their educational experience. In most subjects, pupils demonstrate effective understanding and progress, supported by teachers who maintain high expectations. Nevertheless, there are a few subjects where pupils do not develop deep knowledge over time, indicating a need for further curriculum refinement.
The curriculum is generally well thought out, with leaders identifying key knowledge for pupils to learn. This knowledge is sequenced effectively, allowing for regular opportunities to revisit and embed understanding. For instance, in English, the curriculum builds progressively from simpler texts to more complex narratives, preparing pupils for advanced analysis in later years. Reading is prioritized, with pupils encouraged to read widely, enriching their vocabulary and understanding of diverse cultures.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is robust, ensuring they can access the full curriculum and keep pace with their peers. Teachers are attentive to gaps in knowledge and adapt learning accordingly, which helps solidify understanding before advancing to more challenging material.
While the school excels in many areas, there are subjects such as music and design technology that require more careful consideration in terms of curriculum design. Leaders need to identify essential concepts and ensure they are sequenced effectively to enhance pupils' learning experiences in these subjects.
The school is committed to preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom, providing education on various relationships and health topics. A well-structured careers program offers pupils valuable information about future educational and employment opportunities, including university and vocational pathways.
The safeguarding arrangements at Lubavitch House School are effective, with staff well-trained to recognize and report concerns. The curriculum includes lessons on staying safe, particularly online, ensuring pupils are informed about personal safety.
Overall, Lubavitch House School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in specific subjects, the school is well-regarded for its positive culture, strong leadership, and dedication to pupil development.