Hall Mead head Simon London with students at the school

Hall Mead School is rated outstanding in every category in Ofsted report

Safira Ali, Senior reporter Monday, March 11, 2013
5:00 PM

A school, whose teachers “settle for nothing less than the best”, has received top marks in all categories in a recent Ofsted report.

Hall Mead School was rated outstanding by the education watchdog in its first full inspection published last week since becoming an academy in 2011.

Headteacher Simon London and senior leaders were praised for their “relentless drive” to ensure all students succeed, for having “very high expectations” and for settling “for nothing less than the best”.

It achieved top marks for the achievement of pupils; the quality of teaching; the behaviour and safety of pupils; the leadership and management; and governance of the school.

All groups of students were noted to be making excellent progress and learning enthusiastically. Meanwhile, inspectors said: “Teachers know their students well and plan effectively so that lessons are interesting and engaging.”

Christine Mayle, the lead inspector, said in her report: “Teachers have very high expectations of all students. Students respond well to this challenge and strive to achieve their best. They make positive contributions to their learning and show respect for others.”

She added: “Comprehensive and regular checks on students’ progress through analysing assessment information allow all staff to keep a close eye on how each student is progressing.

“Actions are in place to give additional help to those students who need it.”

The report described students’ behaviour as “exemplary” and said they approach learning with confidence and maturity. It said: “Mutual respect is at the centre of the school community.”

It went on to praise the governing body’s “excellent understanding of the school, the challenges its faces and its strengths. Governors have played an active part in securing improvements since the school opened.”

Headteacher Simon London said: “This is a proud day for the academy and an endorsement of our approach to educating the young people in our care.

“It is also a testament to the hard work of the staff, the commitment of our pupils, the support of our parents and the contribution of the governors.”