Crown Hills Community College

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils are proud to attend Crown Hills Community College.

They demonstrate exceptionally positive attitudes and commitment to all of the opportunities that the school provides. There is a real sense of community built on a culture of tolerance and mutual respect between pupils from a diverse range of backgrounds.

The school has the very highest expectations of what pupils can achieve.

The curriculum is aspirational for all. Pupils work hard and achieve well. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) thrive alongside their peers.

Behaviour is exemplary. Pupils commit wholeheartedly to learning activities. No time is wasted.
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Caring and dedicated staff make every effort to get to know the pupils well. Pupils trust staff to keep them safe and provide support whenever they need it.

The school makes sure that all pupils benefit from an exceptional array of enrichment activities.

The sports academy stretches pupils' talents and offers them the opportunity to compete in many different sports. A wide range of clubs support pupils to develop other interests. These include debating, henna art, food science and music.

Pupils enjoy memorable experiences together, such as trips to the beach and to the Houses of Parliament.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school has developed a challenging and interesting curriculum. It has been very well designed to build on what pupils know already and provide them with the knowledge, skills and qualifications they need for their next stage in education.

The number of pupils taking the full range of English Baccalaureate subjects has increased in recent years. Almost all pupils go on to ambitious destinations when they leave the school.

The school makes sure that all pupils can access the curriculum.

It quickly and accurately identifies pupils with SEND. Staff are well trained to provide help when it is needed. Weak readers and pupils who speak English as an additional language benefit from additional support to develop their reading fluency.

Teachers deliver the curriculum expertly. Through careful questioning, they check that pupils can recall what they have learned previously. Teachers quickly identify any gaps or misconceptions and correct them before moving on.

They present new knowledge clearly and precisely. Pupils eagerly discuss their learning using subject-specific vocabulary accurately. Learning activities provide pupils with opportunities to apply what they have learned and gain knowledge securely.

When pupils have additional needs, or need extra support, teachers adapt activities carefully so that all can be successful. Pupils respond well and produce work that is of high quality.

The school's personal development offer prepares pupils for adulthood exceptionally well.

This includes an aspirational careers programme that encourages pupils to aim high. All pupils receive personalised advice about their future choices and have the opportunity to gain work experience. Pupils learn how to maintain positive relationships and keep themselves healthy and safe.

Themes in assemblies and tutor time help pupils to develop mature attitudes towards equality and an understanding of fundamental British values. There is a strong emphasis placed on learning about different faiths and cultures. Pupils value this and enjoy celebrating religious festivals together.

Attendance is excellent. Pupils enjoy coming to school. They follow routines without fuss, moving around school calmly and purposefully.

The school is clean and tidy because pupils help to keep it that way. Many pupils gain leadership experience by representing the school council or leading events.

The school has strong links with the local community.

It provides support and care for families when they are struggling. Parents and carers appreciate this. Pupils learn how to be good citizens as they take part in community projects and get involved with charity work to earn the school's 'Brettow Award'.

Pupils thrive at this school as a result of visionary leadership and the shared commitment of staff to provide the very highest quality education for all pupils. The school is well supported by committed governors who prioritise staff's well-being and provide strong challenge to school leaders.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.