Local News Extra: School Passes Its Inspection Tests

By Tony Collins

A SECONDARY school in Staffordshire is enjoying an improving reputation, according to Government inspectors.

Wilnecote High at Tinkers Green Road, Wilnecote, Tamworth, was judged to be a satisfactory and improving school, with some good features.

Education watchdogs Ofsted said the 1,025-pupil school was popular and a focal point in the community.

Inspectors said: "Parents and carers are largely supportive and the school’s reputation is improving."

Exam results were generally above average in Year 11, broadly average in Year 9 but below average in the sixth form.

At the same time, progress made between Years 7 and 9 and in the sixth form was rated as satisfactory.

Inspectors who visited Wilnecote High at the end of November said pupils’ personal development was good across the school.

Students became more confident, improved their communication skills and broadened their outlook.

Behaviour was also said to be satisfactory.

Teaching and learning at the school, which has held specialist performing arts status since 2001, was satisfactory.

"Good or better features in lessons are becoming more widespread because of effective staff development and a strong focus on sharing good practice," the Ofsted inspectors said.

Assessment was equally satisfactory, although the quality of marking varied and a minority was not helpful enough.

The curriculum was broad and especially good at Key Stage 4 and in the sixth form, with the school’s specialist arts status having been used well to enhance it.

Students were well cared for, including the most vulnerable, and individual support was very strong.

At the same time, target setting and monitoring, an area of recent improvement, was mostly effective in ensuring students reached or exceeded expectations.

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