The inspection team identified a strong caring culture where pupils are “happy and enjoy their learning. Friendships span year groups and older pupils provide advice and guidance to younger ones in the mixed-age tutor groups. Pupils feel safe”. Staff knowledge and expertise further support pupils as staff “know them (pupils) as individuals and there are warm relationships. Staff provide effective support with learning or wellbeing challenges. As a result, pupils feel cared for”.

This is the first time the school has been inspected under the new Ofsted framework in which single word judgements for overall effectiveness are no longer awarded and a ‘scorecard’ is produced instead. 

The school’s approach to personal development and wellbeing and its sixth form provision were highly commended, receiving a ‘strong standard’ from inspectors. “Leaders ensure that personal development is central to pupils’ experiences at Chew Valley School. Learning about personal, social, health and economic education is planned carefully and taught very effectively in all key stages by trained staff.”

“The Chew Valley sixth form is welcoming and inclusive, with very effective pastoral support. This means that (sixth form) students are very well prepared for later life and study.”

It was also recognised that “pupils are well prepared for their next stage of education, employment or training” and “Leaders have designed an appropriate curriculum that is broad and balanced”. Support for pupils with additional needs is also effective “the school has a wide range of effective support available for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)” as “leaders have a clear commitment for all pupils to feel part of Chew Valley School. Staff identify the individual educational and pastoral needs of pupils when they join the school.”

Improving pupil attendance is an area for the school to continue to improve with Ofsted recognising the steps already taken “Leaders have appropriate ambitions for more pupils to attend well. They have started to take action to improve attendance”. Working closely with pupils and their families will be crucial in ensuring that the actions that have already been taken have a positive and sustained impact. Attendance and behaviour now fall under one category; however, it is clear from the report that behaviour is an area of strength at the school. "Leaders have ensured that there is a culture where high expectations of behaviour are the norm. They skilfully use a range of information, including about learning and behaviour, to develop a clear understanding of pupils' needs."

Following publication of the report, Headteacher, Mr Gareth Beynon, said, “I am pleased that the inspection team observed our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive and enriching environment where every individual can thrive. I am incredibly proud of our staff and students, whose dedication and enthusiasm make our school such a special place.”

Dr Gary Lewis, Chief Executive of Lighthouse Schools Partnership (LSP), said, “This report highlights the strength of leadership, care and ambition that underpin Chew Valley School. We are fully committed to supporting the school as it continues to develop and deliver even greater outcomes for every pupil.”

Click here to read the full Ofsted Report.