Prospectus

Dear Parents,

I would like to wish you a warm welcome to Caldew School. It is always a pleasure to welcome new parents and students to our school each September. The first step along that journey involves you finding out something about us and in that respect, I hope this prospectus allows you to do just that.

I know that choosing the right secondary school for their child is one of the most important decisions a parent will make. You will want to feel confident that teaching standards are excellent; that our students achieve highly; that your child is well cared for and that the learning environment is welcoming and highly resourced to meet the demands of today’s technological age. Caldew School is a happy and vibrant place where dedicated, highly motivated teachers inspire students to achieve their goals. We know our students well and learning is tailored to ensure that each child achieves their potential and beyond. Expectations and standards are high. Whether it is their progress, classwork, homework, uniform or behaviour, we accept nothing less than excellence from each individual. Our partnership with parents is very important to us and we will work closely with you throughout your child’s time with us to nurture their aspirations, learning and achievement. We firmly believe that students, parents and teachers must work closely together if we are to support every young person to unlock their potential and achieve.

Academic success is important and we place a high premium on equipping our students with the qualifications and skills they will need for their future working lives. We expect them to become the leaders of tomorrow in whatever field they choose to develop their careers. For some this will be by gaining degrees at Oxbridge or other universities, for others through further education or apprenticeships. Each route is equally valuable and it is by ensuring that every student maximises their potential, achieving the best results possible, that we secure this for every one of them in our care.

Caldew has a rich history and, over time, has established an enviable reputation as a school where students of all abilities flourish. Our students follow a traditional curriculum, regularly achieving the highest levels of attainment possible, with substantial numbers progressing to the most prestigious universities. We remain, though, a comprehensive school and as such welcome students of all abilities.

As a school community, we constantly challenge ourselves to learn and improve. It is dedication to lifelong learning and high ambitions that enables staff and students alike to inspire each other on to ever greater heights. This is the spirit in which every Caldew student develops during their time with us.

I hope this prospectus gives you a taste of the special qualities of our school. I would also encourage you not just to read about us, but to come and visit and see us at work.

Ms Vicki Jackson
Headteacher

Leaders have made significant progress in improving the school since the previous inspection. They have focused on creating a broad and ambitious curriculum which meets the needs of pupils and students, including those with special educational needs and /or disabilities (SEND).

Ofsted 2022

An effective programme of personal development has been created for pupils in key stages 3 and 4. This prepares pupils well for their future, giving them opportunities to have important discussions about healthy relationships, social and moral issues.

Ofsted 2022

Leaders have created a welcoming and supportive environment at this school. Pupils and students achieve well in their learning. They are well prepared for their next steps in education, employment and training.

Ofsted 2022

There is a strong culture of safeguarding in place, with clear systems to record any concerns. Leaders keep safeguarding relevant to all members of the school community through regular updates, training, alerts and reminders.

Ofsted 2022

Staff have high expectations for pupils’ and students’ behaviour and learning. Pupils and students behave well in lessons and around the school site. They are polite to each other and look out for others in the school.

Ofsted 2022