Ofsted Report
Three years after Walton Leigh was first awarded the grade of “outstanding”, Ofsted confirmed this grade again during its inspection at the end of June 2009. The inspector awarded the highest grades in every category for both the Key Stages 3 & 4 provision, as well as for the Post-16 Further Education Unit.
The School obtained specialist status in cognition and learning in September 2008 and the inspector recognised the School’s work in this area. “It has worked tirelessly to ensure that the quality of provision is such that the school is recognised as a leader in the local, regional and national communities which work with students with severe and profound learning difficulties”.
The report is full of superlatives but the Head Teacher, Linda Curtis, picked out these quotes as her favourites:
“The way in which all staff work to respect each student’s dignity is of the highest order and, consequently, they ensure that the students’ personal development is outstanding.”
“Provision for students’ personal development is a cornerstone of the school’s ethos and is excellent for all age groups.”
Once again the Linda Curtis, who obtained a distinction in the National Teaching Awards last year, was commended. “The leadership and vision of the headteacher are outstanding and are central to ensuring that the school has continued to improve on the standards set at the last inspection.”
Governors were delighted with the report. The Chair of Governors, Gill Golding, pointed out that specialist school status raised the bar for curriculum standards and that Governors were delighted that the inspector recognised that it “has enhanced the students’ experience and stimulated their learning”. She thanked the senior leadership team and the staff for their dedication and hard work, and parents and friends for their support.
For further information about the inspection report please refer to the special schools section www.ofsted.gov.uk