Les Beaucamps rated ‘good in all areas’ by Ofsted
Les Beaucamps High School has been judged to be good across the board in its first Ofsted inspection.
The school, which has 645 pupils aged between 11 and 16, was inspected in April.
The inspectors praised the school for implementing a broad and highly ambitious curriculum and tackling bullying problems.
But it was urged to have higher expectations of pupils and focus on what improvements could be made at the school.
Principal Martin Haimes he was proud of staff and pupils’ work.
‘To achieve good in all categories is a testament of our collective hard work,’ he said.
‘I am particularly proud that Ofsted has recognised the significant positive steps we have made in curriculum development and delivery.’
The report said the school had a culture of positive behaviour, with pupils behaving well in lessons and around the school site.
The school had had problems with bullying in the past, which had now reduced significantly.
‘However, some pupils still have concerns about this, particularly verbal comments,’ the report stated.
‘When pupils raise such issues, the school records what pupils report. However, it does not then use this information to understand whether patterns exist which will inform the subsequent actions the school will take.’
Inspectors praised the school for offering a broad range of trips and opportunities for pupils, such as clubs and sports events.
When it came to lessons, pupils benefited from a well-sequenced curriculum.
‘The school’s ambition for most pupils is shown, for example, through a greater proportion of pupils choosing to study French at key stage four,’ the report stated.
‘Consequently, pupils are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.’
The inspectors did note that a small minority of pupils did not engage with or learn the intended curriculum in full.
‘The school should raise expectations for this group of pupils and support them to achieve the best possible outcomes.’
They also noted that the school had a clear understanding of pupils’ individual needs and circumstances, but it did not have a strong strategic overview.
‘As a result, the school does not identify patterns or trends which may inform the school’s priorities,' it said.
'The school should use the range of information it holds to ensure that school improvement planning is well focused.’
Director of education Nick Hynes congratulated the school on a positive report.
It leaves Les Varendes as the only high school awaiting inspection.
