“Students’ attitudes towards learning and behaviour are outstanding, and their behaviour is often exemplary. This contributes strongly to a calm and safe environment which inspires a love for learning.” – Ofsted, May 2013
The outcomes of our latest Ofsted inspection arrived in school as a written report this week. The staff and students are celebrating the best report in the school’s history. A full copy of the report can be accessed here. It was pleasing to note that the school was graded as ‘good’ overall and in the category of Behaviour and Safety the inspectors deemed the school to be ‘outstanding’. This is a reflection of the approach of the students to their learning, their “exceptionally mature behaviour around the school” and how well the students show respect to each other. It is also a significant vote of confidence in the procedures and routines that are in place in school, including the recently introduced ‘No Excuses’ policy. With respect to teaching the inspectors noted the high quality throughout the school and how the teaching at Key Stage 4 and in the Sixth Form has a very high proportion of outstanding teaching and that it is never less than good. Sixth Form students were noted for displaying effective skills in independent learning, resulting in many students making exceptional progress. We remain proud of the additional opportunities provided for our students. As noted in the inspection report:
“Students benefit from the exceptional provision for sports through the school’s specialist status. The many opportunities which meet a wide range of needs help to build confidence and leadership skills. Together with contributions from other subject areas such as the performing arts, the school promotes the students’ highly impressive spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.”
There are areas on which we can continue to improve and these will form part of our next development plan. Our ambition remains to be an outstanding school in every aspect. It is most gratifying that we are clearly on the right path to being the best school in the area for the education of boys.
