Ofsted success for Brakenhale School
We are delighted to announce that The Brakenhale School in Berkshire maintains its overall judgement of good following an ungraded (section 8) inspection.
The inspection, carried out on May 21 and 22, 2024, reaffirmed the school's commitment to high-quality education, effective student support, and robust leadership.
Inspectors made the following key points in their report:
The school maintains high expectations for student achievement. Pupils are thriving academically, enjoying a diverse curriculum that supports their educational and career aspirations. The school ensures that pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), receive tailored support to help them reach their full potential.
Effective behaviour management and support is prevalent and inspectors praised student behaviour. The school fosters a calm and orderly atmosphere where students feel safe. Brakenhale School provides necessary resources, such as spare equipment every morning, to ensure students are prepared for their lessons. This proactive approach contributes to a focused, disruption-free learning environment.
The school’s curriculum is broad and ambitious, with increasing numbers of students engaging in subjects such as modern foreign languages and triple sciences. In Key Stage 3, pupils have access to a wide range of creative arts and design and technology subjects. Teachers, recognised as subject experts, use lesson time effectively to enhance students' learning and academic performance.
The school is supportive for students with SEND and quickly identifies the needs of pupils, creating "Pupil Passports" that guide teachers in adapting their lessons. These strategies are well-integrated into classrooms, allowing pupils to articulate how they are being supported. The school also offers interventions outside of lessons, including mental health support, and collaborates with external agencies to provide comprehensive assistance.
Reading is prioritised at The Brakenhale School, with students beginning each day by reading a challenging book in their tutor groups. This approach is tailored to overcome specific barriers to reading, ensuring all pupils can participate.
The Brakenhale School benefits from strong leadership under Headteacher Camilla Douglas and the support of the Greenshaw Learning Trust.
The school is dedicated to continuous improvement, addressing challenges such as student attendance and extra-curricular participation by working closely with parents.
Will Smith, CEO of Greenshaw Learning Trust, says: “We are thrilled that Ofsted has recognised the impressive work taking place at The Brakenhale School under the leadership of Camilla Douglas. This report is a testament to the dedication of the entire school community to improving the life chances of the young people in our care.”
Camilla Douglas, Headteacher of The Brakenhale School, says: “We are extremely proud of our students, staff, and the wider community and will continue to strive for excellence, to develop provision, to provide all children with an outstanding education, and to ensure our students have a life of choice and opportunity.”
Read the full report here and for more information about The Brakenhale School, visit the school’s website.