Ofsted praise for Kidderminster school
Education watchdogs have praised a Kidderminster school for its high expectations, inclusivity and calm focus on learning.
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Baxter College was rated ‘good’ for behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and sixth form provision, in its latest Ofsted inspection.
The inspectors said pupils “feel and safe at Baxter College”, benefiting from “positive relationships with staff”.
For quality of education, the school received a rating of ‘requires improvement’. Inspectors acknowledged that strategies are in place to improve the quality of teaching which are “beginning to have an impact on pupils’ learning”.
They said pupils feel valued, are polite and want to learn. Lessons are calm, pupils focus on their learning and also benefit from the wide range of activities, educational visits and clubs on offer.
Sixth form students told the inspectors they enjoy the support and guidance they receive and their report concluded the school “ensures that pupils are fully prepared for their future.”
Katie Beech, headteacher, said: “I am delighted the inspectors recognised the many strengths of our wonderful school and welcomed our ongoing improvement strategies and the impact they are having.”
The inspectors reported that the school’s curriculum is “ambitious for its pupils” and that reading is a “high priority” with a strong focus on ensuring they have “extensive opportunities” to read.
Their report highlighted a “well-structured approach” to the transition of pupils with special educational needs and that the curriculum is adapted “effectively” to better support them.
The inspectors said: “The school’s ‘personal growth’ programme means that pupils have a clear understanding of how to be independent and respectful to people of other backgrounds.
“They also know how to look after their physical and mental health and to stay safe in the wider community.”
The school is a member of the Severn Academies Educational Trust and chief executive Matthew Carpenter said: “The fact the inspectors could see so quickly the inclusivity of the school, and how everyone feels valued, reflects so well on the dedication and commitment of the Baxter community to always strive to do better.
“As a trust we are working closely with senior leaders to ensure improvement strategies continue at pace to further enhance educational outcomes for our students.”
