Cambridge Muslim Secondary School, Cambridge

What it's like to be a pupil at Cambridge Muslim Secondary School

Cambridge Muslim Secondary School successfully provides pupils with an effective faith-based and secular curriculum that enables pupils to learn to value themselves and others equally. Pupils are proud of their culture and faith, whilst respecting and learning about others. Pupils treat each other kindly and politely. If they have any minor issues with friendships, staff support them to resolve these quickly and amicably. Pupils treat everyone as equals. They learn about human rights and how to be a positive active citizen. Pupils know what democracy is and why we have elections. Pupils learn about personal space and consent. They know how to keep themselves safe, such as when using the internet. They have a strong sense of right and wrong. Pupils learn about other faiths, for instance when a Christian minister spoke to pupils in school. This helps them understand that while people may be different, they are all equal. Pupils raise their aspirations when they meet visitors such as architects and astronomers. Consequently, pupils are effectively prepared to contribute positively, as active citizens, in modern Britain. Pupils enjoy attending this small, happy school. Staff work hard to make them feel part of the school community. Pupils know that staff have their best interests at heart. They know that they are listened to. For instance, when pupils requested a longer lunch break, leaders listened to them and lunchtime was extended. Pupils learn the broad, ambitious curriculum well. They engage positively with their learning. Pupils are increasingly keen to find out more about the subjects they study. The curriculum is taught effectively. Staff encourage and support pupils if they find work hard. Staff are aware that pupils sometimes come to school with gaps in their learning. Teachers check these and work to close them. When necessary, pupils get additional help, such as with their mathematical knowledge. This helps pupils learn more and do more.

What Ofsted says the school should do next

• Leaders should ensure their monitoring enables them to identify where to provide staff with the training and guidance they need to develop their subject and pedagogical expertise.
• Leaders should ensure that their use of assessment provides them with the information they need to identify suitable curriculum pathways for pupils in key stage 4.
• Leaders should ensure staff understand how to adapt their teaching precisely to help pupils better secure and deepen their understanding of important knowledge.
• Leaders should broaden the range of extra-curricular opportunities, such as trips, for pupils.

This small, nurturing school combines Islamic and secular education to help pupils value themselves and others equally. Pupils develop strong character, learn about different faiths and cultures, and are well-prepared to be active citizens in modern Britain. Staff provide excellent support to help pupils overcome barriers to learning and raise their aspirations through engaging visitors and enrichment activities.

Safeguarding standards are met - leaders have established an open culture where safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, concerns are actively identified and acted upon, and pupils feel safe.

Football and other sports including athletics, visits to local library, visiting speakers including author, artist, astronomer, architect, Methodist minister, school sports matches

Train Stations

Bus Stops