XP Gateshead, located in Felling, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening in September 2021. The school, part of the XP School Trust Limited, is led by Principal Julie Mosley and has received positive feedback across various aspects of its educational provision. The inspection, conducted on 15 and 16 October 2024, highlighted the quality of education as good, while behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development, were rated outstanding. Leadership and management were also deemed good, reflecting a strong commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience.
Pupils at XP Gateshead enjoy a dynamic and engaging learning environment. The school employs an expeditionary curriculum that integrates various subjects, allowing students to connect their learning in meaningful ways. Each pupil is part of a ‘crew,’ fostering a sense of belonging and community. This supportive atmosphere contributes to pupils feeling safe and thriving socially. The curriculum is ambitious and broad, catering for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The high-quality work produced by pupils is a testament to their achievements, which are showcased through final products presented to external audiences, enhancing their self-confidence and pride.
The school emphasizes experiential learning, with extensive fieldwork opportunities and an outward-bound adventure for Year 7 pupils, which helps to build lasting friendships and develop essential character traits. The focus on personal development is exemplary, resulting in pupils displaying excellent attitudes towards their learning and peers. XP Gateshead maintains high expectations for student achievement, with a curriculum rich in challenging texts that promote deep understanding. Staff actively teach spoken language skills, encouraging pupils to articulate their thoughts clearly and respectfully engage with others.
Despite the many strengths, the school recognizes the need for improvement in writing development. While pupils are well-supported in other areas, the steps for enhancing their writing skills have not been as clearly defined, leading to some inconsistency in their understanding of sophisticated writing techniques. The school is committed to refining its writing curriculum to ensure pupils can write effectively across various subjects and contexts.
The school’s approach to behaviour management is exceptional, with staff implementing thoughtful strategies that promote individual growth and teamwork. Weekly community meetings allow pupils to support and challenge one another, fostering a culture of respect and empathy. This positive environment contributes significantly to the overall happiness of the school community. Staff effectively reinforce positive behaviours and attitudes, embedding the school’s values throughout the day.
Leadership at XP Gateshead is characterized by a clear and ambitious vision for education. Leaders prioritize a well-rounded education that helps pupils develop into better individuals. Strong relationships with the local community and businesses enhance the school’s career provision, benefiting students as they prepare for their future. Staff express satisfaction in their roles, supported by collaborative planning and professional development opportunities. Parents have also expressed high levels of satisfaction with the education and experiences provided to their children, praising the dedication of the staff.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The inspection concluded that while the school has many strengths, it should continue to focus on refining its writing curriculum to enhance pupils' writing skills further. Overall, XP Gateshead is making significant strides in providing a quality education that prepares students for success in their academic and personal lives.
