Ofsted: Verulam School rated 'good' by inspectors

The Brampton Road school has recently had a change of headteacher, with Mr Fergal Moane taking over at the beginning of May.

Inspectors praised behaviour at the school, describing most pupils behaviour as 'sensible', while also noting that those who do misbehave are dealt with "firmly but fairly."

Fergal Moane took over as headteacher in May. (Image: Verulam School)

The school's valuing of tradition and its house system were also praised.

The report reads: "It provides good opportunities for Sixth Form students to show leadership and act as role models for younger pupils."

It goes on to say: "Expectations are high for academic achievement. Pupils achieve well in the majority of curriculum subjects. The school provides very well for most aspects of pupils’ wider development."

The curriculum was described as 'well organised'.

However, the education watchdog did raise concerns about pupil assessments, noting that while a new system had been put in place since their last visit, that "opportunities are still being missed".

The school was broadly praised by inspectors (Image: Verulam School)

With regard to pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEND), the feedback from Ofsted was mixed.

Pupils with additional needs are "clearly identified", but the report says: "While some teachers make adaptations and adjustments as required to help meet individual needs, this is not consistent. This occasionally slows learning for pupils with SEND because they struggle to complete their work."

Having previously been an issue, the report notes that "attendance is improving".

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Inspectors found that "leaders have good knowledge of the reasons why pupils are absent and have a range of effective strategies to support them."

The report also found that the majority of staff working at the school enjoy working there and that pupil support is "excellent".

Commenting on the report, Mr Moane said: "We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the progress that Verulam has made since our last inspection. 

"They have cited key strengths in line with our values: Excellence in a broad curriculum with strong academic outcomes; character in praising our personal development program as 'excellent' and respect in that our students are safe and happy in an inclusive environment where everyone can be themselves.

"We will continue to work with our community and partners in the Trust to strengthen further."