A Chertsey school that thoroughly impressed Ofsted inspectors with impeccably behaved pupils and masterful staff during an inspection in October has been ranked 'Outstanding'.
Salesian School was founded 100 years ago and teaches more than 1,800 students aged 11- 18. Its atmosphere was something that impressed inspectors, who wrote “Pupils flourish at this exceptional school. A sense of happiness pervades.”
The Ofsted report found the school ‘Outstanding’ in all areas including in its sixth-form provision which is around 400 pupils strong. Inspectors also highlighted the quality of the education children receive, stating “Lessons are industrious. Pupils are thirsty to learn and curious. They concentrate well and take responsibility for their own learning. This prepares them remarkably well for the next stage of their education.
“Expert teachers focus sharply on pupils’ learning. Staff masterfully direct purposeful and targeted support to those who need it the most, particularly disadvantaged pupils. Pupils are empowered to become independent learners. Everyone achieves exceptional outcomes that prepare them for future success excellently.”
As well as academic success, inspectors noted the school’s thoughtful ‘cocurriculum’ which “ensures that pupils are very well prepared to become active citizens who can make a difference. Countless opportunities exist for pupils to develop and extend personal and social skills, talents and interests, including in the sixth form. Everyone aspires to use their leadership skills to make a positive contribution.”
This is supported by a number of opportunities to take part in sports, societies, creative arts and debate. Trips and visits also support the curriculum especially in sixth form, where students visit prospective universities.
Inspectors also reported that “everyone receives timely and particularly personalised information to support and inform their choices after school. One student told inspectors, ‘We are in charge of our own destiny, and we are supported to get there.’ Pupils’ behaviour is impeccable.” As a result attendance is very strong
Headteacher Paul Gower said “The Ofsted report accurately reflects the incredible hard work of staff and students at our school. The daily commitment of students is exemplary and staff go over and above to support them. This is manifest not only in the excellent results students gain year after year, but the huge breadth of co-curricular opportunities and trips that punctuate the students’ seven year academic journey. I was very pleased that the inspection team saw that the values of the school were ‘lived’ and that the special relationships here between students and staff was, and I quote, ‘the gold dust’.”
CEO of Xavier Catholic Multi Academy Trust, James Kibble said “This is a superb report that accurately describes the exceptional school we all know and love. I am delighted for everyone at Salesian; that they have received the recognition they deserve for all their hard work, commitment and compassion. On behalf of everyone at Xavier, and all those who benefit from this outstanding provision, we offer our thanks to the staff, leaders and especially Mr Gower for everything that they do that has led to this glowing endorsement.”
You can find out more about the school here
