Students and staff at Queen Elizabeth’s School are celebrating after a recent Ofsted inspection graded the school ‘expected standard’ in the areas of achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance and personal development and wellbeing.
Ofsted inspectors visited the school in May and in their subsequent report they concluded that pupils feel a strong sense of belonging at the school which sits at the heart of the community.
Inspectors described the atmosphere throughout the school as calm and harmonious and noted that pupils feel valued, nurtured and supported.
In the report, school leaders were commended for being ambitious for every pupil's academic and personal success and for placing them firmly at the centre of all decision making.
Careers support at the school was singled out for praise with inspectors stating that pupils receive impartial, well-structured careers education, information, advice and guidance and that they develop a clear understanding of the pathways available to them beyond school.
It was also observed that relationships between staff and pupils are highly positive and that students have positive attitudes to learning and study in classrooms that are free from disruption.
The inclusive ethos of the school was also highlighted in the report with inspectors stating that leaders place a strong emphasis on fostering a sense of belonging and an inclusive school community.
The report additionally stated that pupils are respectful, friendly and that they are well supported through the warm, trusting relationships they have with staff.
Inspectors also noted that:
- Pupils learn about the importance of kindness and apply this in their interactions with one another.
- Pupils are very positive about the sporting, cultural and artistic opportunities at the school.
- Pupils read widely for pleasure.
- Staff are proud to work at the school.
- Parents value the care that their children receive and appreciate the high expectations and aspirations that staff hold for every pupil.
- Pupils take part in a wide range of clubs, activities and educational visits.
- The school also provides rich opportunities for pupils to develop a connection with the natural world.
QE, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, has a rich and proud history serving Crediton and the surrounding villages since 1547. The school is a place where every individual is empowered and their curriculum strives to challenge students, inspiring their curiosity and creativity.
Ofsted has recently introduced a new inspection and reporting system. The previous single word judgements such as ‘Outstanding’ and ‘Good’ have been removed and replaced with a report card approach.
Under the new system, schools are graded across separate areas and each area is assessed using a five point scale ranging from ‘exceptional’ through to ‘urgent improvement’. The ‘expected standard’ is just that, it means the school is doing everything that it should be doing. It’s a high standard, to make sure children are receiving everything they need and deserve.
Ms Paula Smith, headteacher at Queen Elizabeth’s School, said:
"We are delighted that this report recognises so many of the qualities that make Queen Elizabeth's School such a special place to learn and grow. What shines through most strongly is the sense of belonging that our students experience every day. We are incredibly proud that inspectors recognised the warm relationships, inclusive culture and strong community spirit that sit at the heart of our school.
"The report reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, the positive attitudes and kindness of our students, and the support of our families. Together, we have created an environment where young people are encouraged to be ambitious, develop confidence in themselves and embrace the many opportunities available to them.”
Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said:
"This report captures so much of what Queen Elizabeth's School stands for. It highlights a school where relationships are strong and where every young person is encouraged to aim high and fulfil their potential.
"We are particularly pleased to see inspectors recognise the school's inclusive ethos, ambitious culture and commitment to ensuring young people are well prepared for life beyond the classroom.”
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