STAFF and students at Windsor High School and Sixth Form in Halesowen have been celebrating Ofsted success after the school was rated as ‘outstanding’ in a new inspection report.
The school and sixth form, which was rated ‘good’ at its last inspection in June 2022, was given the top rating across all judgement areas after an inspection on October 8 and 9.
The inspection report, published on November 13, praised hardworking pupils who “aspire highly and contribute to the thriving life of this unique school”.
It added: “In lessons, pupils are engaged in making the most of every moment. Pupils have a strong understanding of the expectations for them. Over time pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), do very well. They achieve strong academic outcomes and are well prepared for their next steps.”
The report praised staff for their focus on helping students to “achieve their dreams” and said youngsters are well supported through the school’s ‘Personal Potential’ programme and that staff are proactive in supporting “disadvantaged pupils to ensure they get the best opportunities”. While sixth form students have access to extensive enrichment activities.
It praised pupils as “kind, empathetic and polite towards each other” and added: “Bullying is very rare, and staff are quick to resolve any issues.”
It added that staff also “regularly praise and reward pupils”.
Inspectors said adults “enforce the very high expectations with kindness” adding: “This has created a culture of positivity right across the school where everyone respects each other.”
The report praised the “breadth and depth of the school’s work to promote pupils’ personal development” – describing it as “a stand-out feature” and said there is an abundance of opportunities for pupils to develop their talents and interests.
Inspectors also commended the school’s “strong leadership”, “clear strategic vision” and “consistent evaluation” and said: “Leaders are highly committed to continued and sustained improvement.”
Headteacher Stephen Lanckham, who has been headteacher at the school for almost a decade, said: “It has been my privilege to serve as headteacher of this extraordinary school for nearly a decade. Here at Windsor, students, families and staff share a commitment to excellence that has brought us to this incredible milestone. This report is a tribute to the collective commitment of our school community, where every single person works tirelessly to unlock the academic and personal potential of our young people. I couldn’t be prouder of this exceptional community.”
Dan Owen, director of education at Windsor Academy Trust, said: “This is a tremendous achievement. To be judged outstanding in all judgement areas is testament to the hard work of so many people at the school, and across the wider Windsor Academy Trust family. Most importantly though, it means the best possible outcomes and the brightest of futures for our young people.”
Dawn Haywood, chief executive officer at Windsor Academy Trust, added: “As the founding school of the Windsor Academy Trust family, I could not be more proud of our leaders, staff and young people at the school. This report recognises the school’s incredible commitment to ensuring students thrive and feel a sense of belonging, and reflects the collective strength of our family of schools who work collaboratively to unlock the academic and personal potential of all our young people.”
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