STAFF, governors, parents and students were celebrating today after achieving a remarkable turnaround in their fortunes.

Just a few months ago, Ofsted had slammed the school, putting them into the special measures category.

But according to sources, the report galvanised the school and they have now produced what can only be described as an exceptional Ofsted.

The report is classified as Good with elements of Outstanding.

A source close to the school said: “This is the type of school that is committed to every student. They want to get the best out of each student.

“This is not a school that will bow to the statistics game. This report vindicates its ethos and shows that they are heading in the right direction.

Ofsted has stated the following:

1. Standards are average but rising in all subjects, and achievement is rising rapidly.

2. Disabled students and those who have special educational needs do well because their needs are understood and support is effective.

3.The school’s checking and review of its teaching is consistently accurate. Teaching is
good. Students respond very positively to the well-planned lessons.

4.Standards in the sixth form are rising as a direct result of improvements made in
teaching.

5.Behaviour is outstanding. Students work particularly well together, feel safe, and have a very positive attitude to learning.

6.Students are courteous, and a calm social atmosphere is evident around the school.

7.Attendance is above the national average.

8.Additional government funding has been used well to support students who need extra help.
As a result, they achieve as well and often
better than their peers.

9.Leadership and management are good. Staff are proud to be part of a rapidly improving team.

10.Senior staff have been very well supported by the experienced educationalists who have advised the governing body. Working together, senior staff and governors have driven rapid improvement in teaching and achievement.

11.The governing body has been approached by the other secondary schools in Harlow to extend access to the sixth form provision across the town.

YH is looking to interview the headteacher, Elaine Heapy regarding the Ofsted inspection report.