Woodlane High School gets top marks by Ofsted inspectors

Impressed inspectors have awarded Woodlane High School an ‘outstanding’ Ofsted report.

Impressed inspectors have awarded Woodlane High School an ‘outstanding’ Ofsted report.

Not only was the special school in White City rated outstanding, it was also given the top rating in all categories that inspectors assess – leadership, quality of teaching, personal development and welfare, and outcomes for pupils.

“This Ofsted report comes as no surprise,” said Cllr Larry Culhane, H&F Cabinet Member for Children and Education. “I know the quality of teaching and care for pupils at Woodlane is second to none, this report simply confirms that.

“I’m glad the inspectors could see the difference staff and the school community makes to pupils and their families every day.”

Praise

Inspectors were full of praise for the school, in Du Cane Road, which teaches pupils with special needs aged 11 to 16.

Among their findings they said that there is a culture of excellence throughout the school and that pupils make sustained and substantial progress preparing them extremely well for adult life.

They praised staff for being highly motivated and for valuing the professional development they receive, with the result that pupils benefit from a rich learning experience.

The inspectors added that teachers’ subject knowledge is strong enabling them to personalise lessons to the pupils, and the curriculum offer is impressive. Inspectors were also impressed by the way staff, students, and parents all contribute to development plans, and by the way that teachers ensure no pupils fall behind.

Delighted

The Ofsted inspectors also said it was clear that pupils love their time at the school and rarely miss a day.

“We’re absolutely delighted,” said headteacher Claire Maynard. “However, our journey does not stop here. We are committed to on-going excellence, which requires strong strategic vision, creativity and committed partnerships.

“The senior managers would like to thank all our pupils, parents and carers, staff and governors for their hard work, support and dedication to our wonderful school. This is a shared outcome which belongs to the entire Woodlane High School community.”

School meals pilot

Woodlane High School is also working with H&F Council on a pilot scheme to deliver free lunches to reach those most in need.

The free school lunches will start in January 2020 and be offered to pupils as part of a four-year pilot programme. The scheme will be paid for entirely by community contributions won by the council taking a tough approach in negotiations with property developers.

H&F is working with schools, volunteer organisations and local businesses to rise to the challenge as a key aim in the council’s Industrial Strategy to harness the economic prosperity of our booming borough.

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