Telford school chalks up an outstanding rating

Old Hall School in Wellington, Telford, was visited by a team from the Independent Schools Inspectorate and has been given an outstanding report.

The inspectors praised the school with an excellent grading, the highest award it gives, for the quality of pupils' achievements and learning, the effectiveness of governance, leadership and management and the quality of development.

Led by Paul Spillane, the inspecting team praised the school for achieving high standards in "all that it undertakes" adding that "meticulous attention to detail characterises the efficient and effective day-to-day management".

He said: "The academic and support staff are devoted to the well-being of the pupils. The pupils' positive approach to their studies and teaching of high quality are reflected in their significant academic achievement."

The report also highlights the "conspicuously high standards in sport, choral music art and drama" alongside sporting and other successes that pupils achieve."

It also says pupils are proud of their school and grow markedly in self-confidence and self-esteem during their time.

Mr Spillane added: "The broad overall provision enriches the pupils' education, enabling them to develop their talents happily and fruitfully."

He also commended the school's "family atmosphere" for creating an environment where pupil's have a strong sense of belonging and feel happy and safe.

All of the pupils who answered a questionnaire from inspectors said they felt they were making good academic progress and parents expressed great satisfaction with the school and their children's education.

Headmaster Martin Stott said today he was delighted with such a glowing report paying tribute to his staff and the support of the whole school community. He said: "We are all immensely proud of our school. The staff, governors and pupils have worked extremely hard to create an environment where such exceptionally high standards are achieved consistentlyacross the board and I am thrilled that their endeavours have been so thoroughly well endorsed.

"This doesn't mean we will rest on our laurels and we will continue to maintain and improve standards as we move forwards.

"But we are very pleased this report recognised our school for its sense of community where the children have enormous enthusiasm and where the high quality teaching meets our aim to help all pupils to fulfil their academic potential and to foster their intellectual and creative development."