Ofsted praises Nidderdale High School's 'culture of belonging' after first inspection under Government's new rules

Headteacher Kath Jordan said: “We are delighted that the work we do to support all of our young people has been recognised in our recent inspection.

"Meeting the new ‘Expected Standard’ is a high benchmark to reach and we are very proud to have achieved this standard across such a wide range of measures.

"The report reflects the hard work and commitment of all staff, leaders and students and the support of our families and community.”

Inspectors highlighted the school's culture of belonging as a defining feature of school life, stating that "leaders' focus on ensuring pupils experience a sense of belonging underpins their work."

The report also praised the welcoming atmosphere across the school, noting that "everyone is made to feel welcome at Nidderdale High School."

The inspection recognised the strong relationships that exist between staff, pupils and the wider community, describing the school as a place where respectful and caring relationships help pupils feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

Inspectors found that leaders know pupils well and work hard to identify and remove barriers to learning.

They recognised that the school’s broad curriculum is designed effectively to ensure that pupils develop skills and knowledge over time and that teachers use their subject knowledge well to inform their teaching.

The report highlighted the effective support provided for pupils with additional needs, alongside strong pastoral care and wellbeing support.

The inspection also recognised the progress pupils make in their learning.

Inspectors stated that "pupils generally make clear progress from their starting points" and that "achievement in national tests is broadly in line with national averages."

The report also noted that by the end of Key Stage 4 pupils are “successful in securing the next steps that support their interests, aspirations and future ambitions”.

The school's innovative NiddVenture curriculum received particular praise. Inspectors recognised how the programme helps some pupils "overcome their barriers and thrive" through outdoor learning, community volunteering and personal development opportunities.

Activities such as tree planting, volunteering, Duke of Edinburgh expeditions and supporting local residents, delivered through NiddVenture and Flourish, were highlighted as giving all pupils opportunities to develop confidence, leadership, resilience and valuable life skills.

The report also recognised improvements in attendance, including for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities. Inspectors praised leaders' understanding of pupils' individual circumstances and recognised their actions are helping to reduce the number of pupils who are persistently absent

Leadership was another significant strength identified during the inspection. Inspectors found that there is "a shared drive to secure achievement for all" and recognised the commitment of leaders, governors and trustees to ensuring pupils receive the support they need to succeed.

The report also highlighted that “staff feel valued, are positive about the support they receive and are proud to work at the school”.

Nidderdale High School is part of Moorlands Learning Trust. CEO, Helen Williams said: “We are thrilled that the hard work of all students and staff at Nidderdale High School has been recognised by Ofsted.

"This latest inspection report is testament to the way that everyone at the school regularly goes above and beyond to ensure that all students have access to a wide range of opportunities and can succeed across multiple disciplines.

"The new ‘Expected Standard’ is, indeed, a higher bar than ever before and I want to congratulate everyone involved in achieving such a positive outcome for the school.”

More information at: https://www.nidderdalehighschool.co.uk/