York school ‘delighted’ with new Ofsted report
Senior staff at a York secondary school say they are delighted by their new Ofsted report.
Inspectors have rated Joseph Rowntree School ‘Good’. Today (Wednesday), the school shared the report with parents before it is officially published tomorrow.
In the report the school’s work to enhance the quality of the curriculum for pupils is recognised, including those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).
Headteacher Dave Hewitt said: “We are really pleased with the Ofsted report and how it recognises the impact of key parts of our work including our high expectations, broad and ambitious curriculum, wider personal development, and the support and care we provide for all of our pupils.
“The hard work of our staff has been at the centre of the progress we have made as a school and this really shines through in the report.”
Joseph Rowntree School was rated good at its last Ofsted inspection in 2017.
The new report states: “Leaders, governors and staff have high expectations for what pupils and students should achieve.
“Teachers are passionate about their subjects and this stimulates pupils’ interest in their studies. In lessons and around the school, pupils follow the routines and expectations set by staff.
The strength of the school’s sixth form was also highlighted in the report. Inspectors wrote: “Students who choose to stay on into the sixth form are well supported and progress well.
“The sixth-form curriculum is strong. Students can choose a wide range of subjects. Leaders have carefully planned what knowledge students need to gain in each subject.”
‘Safe and happy’
It goes on: “Pupils told inspectors that they feel safe and happy. They are taught how to keep themselves safe online and in the community.
“If bullying happens, staff resolve this swiftly and effectively. Pupils are confident that if they have a problem there will be someone to talk to and that they will receive the help they need.
“This care and support is a strength of the school.”
Ofsted inspectors identified two areas to improve for the school, whoch has 1,270 pupils aged from 11 to 18.
They say: “Some parents and carers do not feel sufficiently aware of the systems in place to support their children,” and recommended better communication, particularly with parents of SEND pupils.
And they said staff should do more to encourage older students to read.
Mr Hewitt added: “Our ethos of being the right school for our students to grow in is much more than just about exam results.
“Our Year 11 and Sixth Form results this year were the best the school has ever achieved, but equally important is our work on personal development and the range of extracurricular activities we provide for our students.
“It was great to see this reflected in the feedback we received from inspectors and in the report.”