School where pupils are 'proud' to attend bounces back with 'good' rating

A school in Wigan graded as ‘requires improvement’ by inspectors four years ago has now been given a ‘good’ rating. The Ofsted report says pupils are ‘proud’ to attend Atherton High School.

“They value the positive relationships they have with their teachers,” it said. “Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), feel happy and safe. They relish the warm and welcoming atmosphere at the school.”

It said that, in the main, pupils are respectful of each other and work hard to meet the high expectations that the school has of their achievement. “They are motivated to learn and maintain a positive attitude towards their learning,” the report continued. “As such, the learning environment is clam and purposeful.”

READ MORE: Horse rider seriously hurt after bikers 'revved and drove at them'

The school is part of the Education Partnership Trust, which means that other people in the organisation also have responsibility for running the school. Its head teacher is Ben Layzell, but the trust is run by chief executive Sharon Roscoe and overseen by a board of trustees, chaired by Ian Brown.

The report says the trustees and local governing body have a ‘good understanding’ of their roles and responsibilities. “They provide appropriate challenge and support to the school,” the report said. "This helps the trust and the school to make the necessary improvements to policies and systems.

“The school has increased its engagement with parents and carers over time. This means that staff are better informed about the barriers that prevent some pupils from attending school or achieving well.”

Inspectors said this is leading to positive action to help improve attendance rates and pupils’ academic success.