June news
Action plan for 'improving' secondary school
Government inspectors have assessed Mayfield Secondary School in Portsmouth as 'improving' but requiring further significant improvement in teaching and learning in order to raise standards of attainment.
A report by Ofsted inspectors, following a two-day visit in May to the school in North End, Portsmouth has now been published.
This confirms that the proportion of students at the school attaining five or more higher GCSE grades has increased considerably but also that the school has received a formal 'Notice to Improve'.
Paddy Bradley, Head of Learning and Achievement at Portsmouth City Council said: "This inspection confirms that there is considerable good practice in the school and the standards of students have improved considerably in recent years.
"We acknowledge however that essential improvements are still necessary as reflected in the 'Notice to Improve'. We are therefore now working closely with the headteacher, senior leadership team and governing body at the school to develop and implement a targeted action plan that will deliver these improvements.
"For instance, the curriculum has been developed to ensure that it meets the needs and interests of students as fully as possible. We must now make sure that students at the school receive good teaching consistently in lessons that are engaging and enjoyable and meet the needs of all students."
The Ofsted inspectors noted that although still at an early stage, the school's work as a specialist arts college is a strength and is already contributing to the school's wider improvement. They also commented that the senior leaders at the school are providing clear direction and are ambitious for further improvement.
Headteacher of the school Derek Trimmer said: "As well as recognising our improving examination results, this report highlights many positive aspects of our school including our strength in providing care, guidance and support for students and the comprehensive and effective pastoral support provided by staff.
"It is pleasing to note that students confirm very clearly that behaviour has improved in recent years and they feel safe and secure in school. The number of exclusions has fallen considerably and is now below average.
"We acknowledge however that there is much work necessary to achieve the consistently high quality standards that our students deserve and we are determined that this will be achieved as soon as possible. "
Councillor Eleanor Scott is Cabinet Member for Education, Children and Young People at the city council. She said: "I am confident that the action plan being implemented by the school, with the support of the city council, will deliver the continued improvements necessary at Mayfield.
"Changes have already recently been made, for instance to the work of the school's middle leaders, who now have much greater responsibility for securing improvement in their areas. The city council will of course be monitoring this closely.
"We are confident that changes such as these, along with other improvements to be made, will soon be reflected in the quality of teaching and standards at the school.
"I have a huge amount of respect for the headteacher, as have parents with whom the school has become increasingly popular. I wish the school well and offer it my full support."
Date : 09 June 2008