Until very recently, pupils have not had a good enough deal at this school. Examination results have fallen year-on-year. Some teachers do not have high enough expectations of pupils. A new headteacher was appointed in April 2019. She has acted quickly, to halt the school’s decline and begin the much-needed improvement. Pupils value the changes she is making. For example, leaders have reviewed what is taught at key stage 3. However, there is still more to do so that pupils know and remember more in all subjects. The headteacher also recognises that the current key stage 4 curriculum is not ambitious enough. Pupils enjoy coming to Middlewich High School. They told us the school welcomes everyone. Pupil say they feel safe and confident to be themselves. Pupils respect each other’s differences. They say that bullying is rare, and that staff sort any issues that might happen. Pupils behave well and work hard in lessons. Almost all pupils take care to move around the school sensibly. This includes when corridors become crowded before and between lessons. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are well supported. This includes those who attend the specialist resource provision. Pupils with SEND take a full part in the wider life of the school. They are well prepared to move on their next steps in education and training when they leave the school.