Students and staff at Bridgnorth Endowed are celebrating the news of a ‘Good’ rating in its latest Ofsted report, an achievement that reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire team.
Inspectors visited the school for a two-day graded inspection at the start of the autumn term and were particularly impressed with the significant progress made since the previous report in 2018.
Headteacher, Mr Penn, has taken Bridgnorth Endowed from strength to strength during his 12 months in post and, describing it as an “aspirational environment” Ofsted gave a ‘Good’ rating across all areas.
The school has undergone some considerable changes over the past year, including a move into The 3-18 Education Trust, and the new direction has certainly paid off.
“We are all delighted with the result”, said Mr Penn. “I have ambitious plans for BES but without the unwavering commitment from students, staff and parents, this would not have been possible.”
A robust approach to attendance, effective safeguarding, and an emphasis on behaviour and learning have all contributed to the success of this winning strategy.
Teaching has been a key focus and Ofsted paid tribute to the “ambitious” curriculum that had been “strengthened”. Their findings on learning also extended to the strong focus on literacy that runs throughout the school.
Observations in lessons and scrutiny of classwork showed that the school “worked effectively to improve the quality of the curriculum and pupils’ outcomes” and that “pupils focus on their learning in lessons.”
The Ofsted inspectors went on to commend Bridgnorth Endowed School for its increased extra-curricular provision as “all pupils take part in the wider activities every day which enhances their school life” and helps them “to grow beyond the academic.”
Developing the whole child is a top priority at the school and pupils benefit from a wide choice of trips, activities, performances, clubs and student leadership roles.
Commenting on the environment at Bridgnorth Endowed, the report highlights that “pupils enjoy an inclusive and aspirational environment” and “there is a calm atmosphere throughout the school day.”
Importantly, safeguarding was reported as effective and that “pupils feel safe in school” through a rigorous behaviour system where “staff take bullying seriously” and issues are addressed.
Bridgnorth Endowed’s ethos is also praised with students being “encouraged to live out the school values of kindness, trust, aspiration, resilience and respect.”
Headteacher, Mr Penn, concludes: “I am extremely proud of our pupils, their parents and our dedicated governors and members of staff who all helped Ofsted to recognise Bridgnorth Endowed School’s strengths. We are very excited about the future and continue the work to move onwards to outstanding.”
