By Sarah Robinson

Published at 11:10, Thursday, 26 July 2012

STAFF at St Benedict’s School have been praised for “raising their game”, as two inspection reports reveal improvements at the school.

Executive headteacher Ian Smith says he is “delighted” that Ofsted and diocesan inspectors have recognised improvements to teaching and learning progress.

In February, an Ofsted inspection placed the school in special measures.

Mr Smith said: “St Benedict’s School has responded tremendously since special measures were imposed on the school. The improvements made, particularly in teaching and learning progress, have exceeded my expectation at this time and I am delighted that this has been recognised not by one inspection team, but two.

“I would like to go out of my way to praise the staff at the school and in particular, the teaching staff as they have raised their game significantly. I am very optimistic about the future.”

The diocesan inspection said St Benedict’s is a “good school” with significant strengths in religious education and pastoral care.

Ofsted inspectors said student attainment is beginning to rise but that, while this year’s exam results may be an improvement on last year, it is still “likely to fall short of its target”.

The report noted that satisfactory progress has been made in teaching to raise attainment levels, especially in English and maths. Inspectors say the school has continued to improve students’ attendance.

Satisfactory improvements have been made to the behaviour and safety of students and good progress has been made on developing leadership and management.

Willie Slavin, recently elected chair of governors, praised staff for the “extraordinary turn about” in the fortunes of the school.

He said: “The Ofsted monitoring report erred on the side of restraint in its judgement at this stage; the transformation, thus far, has been quite remarkable.”

Mr Slavin added: “Everyone associated with the school recognises that there is some way to go to retrieve the excellent reputation of St Benedict’s Catholic High School. However, there is a fierce determination to continue the work to consolidate improved structures with a clear focus on continuing improvement in teaching and learning.”

Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk