Ofsted praises school for 'ambitious curriculum'

A school in Wolverhampton has been praised for its "excellent behaviour" and "ambitious curriculum" by education watchdog Ofsted.

Inspectors visited Highfields School, on Boundary Way, and found achievement, attendance and behaviour and inclusion were being delivered at a strong standard.

Safeguardinging standards were being met, inspectors observed, saying pupils were made to feel safe at the school, which is part of the Lykos Multi Academy Trust.

The report also highlighted four areas that had met the expected standard.

Pupils at the secondary school achieved "very well across the curriculum", Ofsted reported.

Nationally published outcomes at key stage 4 were high and many pupils' achievement and progress were significantly above national averages. Disadvantaged pupils performed especially well, the report stated.

During its previous inspection in October 2011, the school was given a rating of "Good" for overall effectiveness.

The areas that met the expected standard are:

• Curriculum and teaching
• Leadership and governance
• Personal development and wellbeing
• Post 16 provision

Inspectors said: "Leaders articulate an ambitious, inclusive vision. This is underpinned by robust safeguarding and carefully adapted support. Staff know pupils well. The school identifies and assesses needs accurately.

"Leaders have designed an ambitious curriculum. It equips pupils with the knowledge and skills they need for future success. Subject leaders have identified essential knowledge."

They added that pupils valued the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) hub as a safe, supportive space.

"The inclusive approach to enrichment ensures they can participate," the report said.

Inspectors said provision for looked‑after children was also "well embedded".

Commenting on what they observed during their visit in February, inspectors wrote: "Behaviour across the school is calm and orderly. Expectations are clear and consistently understood.

"Pupils rise to these high standards. Classrooms are typically purposeful and focused, allowing learning to take place without disruption.

"Pupils report that bullying is rare and that staff deal with any concerns effectively. Pupils trust staff to listen to them and to act in their best interests."

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