Exciting news at Townsend School – finally recognised as a good school!
Hertfordshire’s only Voluntary Aided CE Secondary School that is based in St Albans has just been graded as GOOD in every aspect by Ofsted inspectors.
The report was formally published by Ofsted this week following an inspection just before Christmas. Headteacher Mr Wellbeloved said “I am still smiling as are our pupils, staff, governors and parents/carers who are equally as pleased with the report. It celebrates the excellent achievement of our pupils and comments strongly about our values and ethos, while praising the attitudes of our students and the work of all of our staff to give every child the best possible experience.”
The report starts with the words ‘This is a good school’ and goes on to give grades under five headings - Achievement of pupils GOOD, Sixth Form provision GOOD, Quality of Teaching GOOD, Behaviour and Safety of pupils – GOOD, Leadership and Management GOOD. Overall effectiveness is summarised by the Ofsted inspectors as GOOD.
Mr Wellbeloved also said “The report very strongly endorses the work of our students and staff and celebrates so much that makes Townsend a special place for a child. Inspectors said that the school is delivering a good education with good outcomes and in a wonderfully supportive and caring environment with strong and secure values and ethos.” While praising the academic achievement of pupils, the report also emphasises on how successfully the school’s ‘Respect for All’ policy is practised. The report states “Spiritual, moral, social and cultural aspects of students’ learning are well developed. The school prepares students well for life in modern democratic Britain, and its focus on developing respect for all is exemplary.” Given the national focus on radicalisation Mr Wellbeloved said “In the current international climate and with the fear of radicalisation of young people high on the national agenda, we are very happy to have this aspect of school life to be considered as exemplary. That is a wonderful tribute to our school community that actively welcomes children of all faiths and of no faith. Examination results are a high priority for us, but also what is important is the rounded development of the children in our care.”
Copies of the report can be obtained from the school.
For further information please contact Mr Wellbeloved, Headteacher Townsend CE Secondary School, High Oaks, St Albans, Hertfordshire. AL3 6DR
Tel: 01727 853047. Email: admin@townsend.herts.sch.uk