Controversial Ofsted report finally published – and paints glowing picture of school where 'pupils flourish'
Its publication has been the source of major controversy but an Ofsted report into a Shropshire school is glowing with praise.
The release of the findings from the inspection of Thomas Telford School, which took place in December, have been delayed due to a dispute between the school and the education watchdog.
But, published this morning, the report delivers an almost perfect verdict for the school, which is based in Overdale, Telford, and takes in large numbers of pupils from across Shropshire and Wolverhampton each year.
Rated outstanding in four areas – quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and sixth form provision, the report also concludes that leadership and management are 'good'.
The decision to rate 'leadership and management' as good was the reason the school has been downgraded from its previous overall grade of 'outstanding' to 'good' – and was the subject of much criticism from the school.
But the report paints a truly glowing picture of the school's work – describing a place where "pupils flourish" and a "culture of high expectations permeates every aspect of school life".
It praises the construction of the curriculum and adds: "Pupils make exceptionally strong progress and produce work of a very high standard."
It commends the efforts of teaching staff as key in pupils making "impressive gains in their knowledge and understanding over time".
Describing what it is like to attend the school, inspectors say: "Pupils flourish at Thomas Telford School. A culture of high expectations permeates every aspect of school life. From Years 7 to 13, pupils rise to the academic challenge and wealth of additional opportunities that staff provide.
"Leaders work in close partnership with parents and carers to ensure that pupils grow and develop into successful young adults.
"Pupils’ behaviour throughout the school is exemplary. In lessons, pupils show a hunger and desire to learn. They feed off teachers’ enthusiasm and passion for their subject.
"At lesson change-over and social times, pupils are mature and respectful of others. They carry their red folders to each lesson sensibly and wear their uniform and physical education (PE) kit with pride. Leaders deal with bullying swiftly if it ever occurs.
