Longdendale High School, located in Hyde, underwent its first inspection under the new academy status in February 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas such as the quality of education and leadership and management also receiving similar ratings. However, the school demonstrated strengths in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development, both of which were rated as good.
Pupils at Longdendale High School express enjoyment in their school experience, highlighting a variety of clubs and activities available to them, including dance, debating, and sports. They appreciate opportunities for leadership roles, such as school councillors and prefects, and engage in charitable activities. The school has made strides in improving behavior, with reports from older pupils and staff indicating a positive shift compared to previous years. Pupils generally behave well in lessons and during social times, fostering a respectful environment where they feel safe and supported.
Despite the positive aspects, the quality of education is still a work in progress. While leaders have high expectations for all pupils, these have not yet translated into consistently high achievement across all subjects. Some weaknesses persist in the design and implementation of certain subject curriculums, leading to gaps in pupil achievement. Leaders are actively reviewing and refining the curriculum, with some subjects showing clear progression in knowledge acquisition, while others are still developing their frameworks.
Teachers face challenges in effectively assessing pupil understanding, which can result in students moving on to new content without securing foundational knowledge. This issue is particularly pronounced for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, who may not receive the tailored support necessary for their learning. The school has implemented a new reading strategy aimed at improving literacy skills among pupils, but older students still struggle with reading fluency, impacting their ability to engage with the broader curriculum.
The school environment is described as calm and orderly, with minimal disruption during lessons, allowing pupils to focus on their work. Attendance remains a concern, particularly among disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, as their rates are lower than their peers, leading to missed learning opportunities. Leaders are working with families to address these attendance issues.
Pupils receive age-appropriate education on relationships, sex, and health, as well as insights into various cultures and religions. They also benefit from career guidance, which aids in their future planning. Staff morale is generally high, with many expressing satisfaction in their roles and feeling supported by leadership.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff receiving regular training to identify and respond to potential risks. The school collaborates with external agencies to ensure pupil safety and well-being. Overall, while Longdendale High School has made significant improvements in various areas, there are still critical aspects that require attention to enhance the educational experience and outcomes for all pupils.
