Ofsted inspectors have heaped praise on Teesdale School which only four years ago was rated as “poor” . Reporter David Wibberley found out more about the turnaround and the school’s plans for the future
WHEN Teesdale School and Sixth Form became part of the North East Learning Trust in September 2016, the trust acknowledges that “there was a lot to do” .
The school’s reputation in the community had taken a big dent only a year before after a bad Ofsted report.
But this month, inspectors were full of admiration for the dramatic improvements that have taken place at Teesdale School and Sixth Form.
Executive headteacher Dr Janice Gorlach said: “The amount we have changed is phenomenal. We want our students to have the best in the area – we want an excellent school where the children excel at everything.”
Since joining the North East Learning Trust, Teesdale school has benefitted from improvements and investments including having a dedicated executive headteacher and the reintroduction of subjects such as photography, religious education, design and technology, food studies and photography.
Capital investment and new resources have totalled more than £400,000 and this has included new inside and outdoor spaces and the redecoration of all classrooms, new fencing to improve safety, improved IT and equipment, a new uniform and a new website.
The Ofsted report makes clear that “highly aspirational, determined and committed leadership has transformed Teesdale School and Sixth Form.”
The inspectors highlighted the positive impact sponsorship has had on the school and recognised the benefits of the trust’s capacity to provide financial and professional impetus to support the rapid improvements.
The sixth form was also praised as inspectors saw the transformation that has taken place with students now receiving an “outstanding education” where they are ambitious, aspirational and determined to excel.
Inspectors also praised the school pastoral system, commenting that pupils feel well supported and cared for and that students who find the school more challenging are helped. The report acknowledges the challenges some pupils face through isolation in the “dispersed rural community” of Teesdale and how school leaders have made professional counseling services available.
Pupils also come in for praise, with their behaviour classed as outstanding and conduct in lessons impeccable.
Inspectors noted: “Records show a steady decline in the issuing of sanctions and the excellent behavior of pupils is reflected in the low and declining level of exclusion.”
Lesley Powell, chief executive officer at The North East Learning Trust, said: “Everyone at the school has worked so hard over the last three years and I’m incredibly proud of the progress that has been made.
“Coupled with strong exam results, sporting success, creative and performing arts achievements, valuable community work and record levels of university acceptances, the outstanding judgment only goes to confirm that Teesdale School has rapidly developed into one of the best schools in the country.”
Chairwoman of governors Suzanne Duncan added: “I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has worked incredibly hard to achieve this judgement.
“Outstanding awards are much coveted and recognise only the most exemplary educational practice. I am proud that Teesdale has joined this exclusive club and think it is thoroughly well deserved.”
The school will not be resting on its laurels.
Dr Gorlach said: “There is always something you can invest in.
“We want to be able to provide a wider range of experiences for our pupils with better facilities and better resources. Our approach from now on is going to be more focussed, more like a laser beam rather than a wrecking ball.”
Over the summer, work starts on a nature reserve in the school grounds.
Dr Gorlach said: ” There isn’t much good news about the environment in the press at the moment. Our children like many, many more around the world are keen to do their bit to save the planet. This initiative is pupil led and it is great to see that they have such a passion for the world they live in.”
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