Holmes Chapel students praised by Ofsted inspectors

The school was visited by a team of six inspectors on February 11 and 12 for a full Ofsted inspection, the school's first since 2007.

Although restricted to years 8, 9, 10 and 12, the team looked at all aspects of the work of the school, focusing on four key areas, the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management. The inspection team makes a separate judgement on the sixth form.

Headteacher Denis Oliver said: “The inspectors carried out an in-depth review of all aspects of the school’s curriculum.

“Until the report is finalised we are unable to share the formal outcomes. However, we can let you [parents] know some of the things they saw and experienced during their time with us.

“The most important thing they wanted to let you and your children know was how polite, courteous and co-operative the students were.

"They described them as delightful, which is, we believe unique in inspection feedback.

“They describe the school as inclusive, which means they found the student body are supportive, welcoming and kind to each other.

“The governing body and staff would like to thank our students for all they did to contribute to the success of the inspection.

"A special thanks to those who were interviewed, shared their work or came into contact with the inspectors in any other way.”

Mr Oliver thanked the 540 parents who responded to the Parentview survey, a number described as ‘extremely high’ by the lead inspector.

He added: “The vast majority of responses showed clear support for the school and what we are trying to achieve.

“Inspectors spoke very positively about the behaviour and conduct of the vast majority of students in our school, and said they have helped create a positive ethos and learning environment, and most of them enjoy coming to school and engaging in the learning process.

“The inspection team also commented on the warmth and mutual respect shown to each other at break and lunch and how happy and safe the atmosphere is around the school.

"We will receive a full report, including recommendations for development and an overall rating, in due course.

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“In the meantime, the inspection team have given us valuable first stage feedback that includes examples of excellent practice and areas where we need to focus our attention to enhance outcomes for students.

"We will consider and address these areas as a matter of urgency.”