Pupils at Charlton School are ‘well prepared for life in modern Britain’ and proud of their school community, according to a new Ofsted report.
The Wellington-based schoolis described as an ‘open, friendly and respectful community’ where pupils thrive.
The report, based on an inspection last month, cited a ‘renewed drive for improvement’ under Charlton’s new-look leadership team, led by principal Sarah Barton who arrived at the start of the current academic year.
It said: “Pupils value the school’s welcoming ethos and the range of opportunities available, including clubs, trips, the Duke of Edinburgh award and school productions.
“Pupils speak highly of the school,” the report says. “Behaviour across the school is positive and pupils feel respected and ready to learn.
“Leaders and staff build positive relationships with pupils and support their wellbeing needs effectively. Leaders place pupils’ best interests at the centre of their decision-making.”
“Pupils can take on leadership roles that help to develop their confidence and a provide them with a sense of belonging. Personal development opportunities and careers education help pupils to consider their next steps. “
The inspection found that safeguarding standards were being fully met at Charlton, with leaders establishing an open culture where concerns were actively identified, acted upon and managed.
It said attendance levels were improving, and the school had developed a ‘comprehensive and well thought-out personal development programme’ which ensured all pupils benefit.
Sarah Barton said: “I have been clear from the outset that Charlton has enormous potential, and this report reflects both the strong foundations already in place and the clear direction we are now moving in.
“I am particularly proud of the positive culture; our pupils’ behaviour, their personal development and their sense of belonging – these are identified as key strengths. At the same time, we are ambitious to achieve far more.
“The priorities identified by Ofsted are the same areas we had already identified through our own evaluation, and we are firmly focused on securing consistently high-quality teaching so that every pupil can achieve their very best.”
She added: “This is a journey, and with the continued support of our staff, families, governors and the Trust, I am confident that we will realise the full potential of Charlton School.”
Paul Roberts, chief executive of the Learning Community Trust which runs the school, said: “The report highlights so many strengths, including positive behaviour, high attendance, and, importantly, a strong and purposeful culture.
“This reflects the dedication of staff, alongside the clear impact of the new principal as a driving force for change.
“We recognise there are always areas for improvement, but LCT is highly confident in Charlton’s future, with these strong foundations now accelerating momentum towards sustained success.”
