Last updated at 19:34, Thursday, 31 May 2012

Cockermouth School has been judged as good in all areas of its latest Ofsted inspection.

IMPROVEMENTS: Headteacher Cockermouth School

The school was visited by five inspectors last month and their judgement, under new inspection criteria established in January, covered overall effectiveness, achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils, and leadership and management.

Gillian Salter-Smith, lead inspector, reported that attainment for students aged 16 and sixth-form students was above average.

Disabled students and those with special educational needs made good progress.

She added: “Relationships between staff and students are positive and supportive.

“Students are committed learners who enjoy working collaboratively to explore ideas.

“Students display mature and responsible behaviour around the school.”

The report said that students’ views were well represented through the Student Voice group and that the school, which has 1,417 pupils, provided an excellent range of extra-curricular activities.

Teaching was judged as good with some outstanding examples.

Suggested improvements included an increased pace of learning in every lesson and improved teacher marking and expectation of how pupils should present their work.

Leaders and managers were praised for raising achievement and improving teaching and learning, although improvements were suggested in ensuring greater consistency to students’ achievements across subjects.

The governing body was praised for its support and the part it plays in holding leaders to account.

Geoff Walker, headteacher said: “It is a fair reflection of Cockermouth School and inspectors have recognised and noted improvements achieved since the last Ofsted inspection.”

First published at 19:23, Thursday, 31 May 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk