Chadderton's secondary school gets back to 'Good'

The visit from Ofsted inspectors last month has led to celebrations at The Radclyffe School, as the Oldham school received ‘Good’ ratings in all categories and a ‘Good’ overall.

The grade recognises the excellent efforts at improvement that are continuing as the school prepares to join the Cranmer Education Trust.

Inspectors noted that the school is ambitious for all its students, determined that they gain the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.

They also note that:

• The school’s Five Respects underpin positive behaviour in lessons across the curriculum.
• A broad curriculum offers students a wide range of choices. Recent reviews of all our subjects have brought more breadth and depth – the well-designed curricula allow students to build their subject knowledge in a logical way, driving achievement.
• Students enjoy the extensive opportunities offered at the school, particularly the wide range of sports activities available.
• Students are provided with the knowledge they need to be well-prepared for life beyond school.
• Students enjoying reading for pleasure are actively encouraged, and most young people become confident readers.

The report further commended the school for its provision for students with SEND and those with gaps in their reading knowledge.

Student representatives were delighted with the report and shared their thoughts and opinions with inspectors.

Kiara, in Year 9, said, “The Radclyffe School is great because there are lots of things that I can get involved in. The clubs and activities are great.”

Year 10 student Amaar said, “Everyone feels welcome and has a place in the school. The teachers care about your learning and constantly try to make you the best student you can possibly be.”

William, a Year 10 student, added, “The school is a really safe place to be. Our teachers and staff really care about us and look after us. The teachers are really skilled and experienced, making our lessons good.

Headteacher John Cregg said, “We’re delighted by this improved judgement, which is a resounding endorsement and validation of the amazing commitment and extensive hard work undertaken by our staff team and our school improvement partners, including the Cranmer Education Trust.”

We know that there are some areas for further improvement, and we are working hard to ensure these are addressed and to find ways to make our amazing school even better across all areas.”

The Chair of Governors, Sue Webb, added, “As a governing body, we are thrilled with the outcome of the inspection and the ‘Good’ judgements in every single category. We know that under Mr. Cregg’s leadership, the school's staff has worked tirelessly to bring about the necessary changes identified in the last report, and this report reflects their ongoing efforts and commitment to our students.”

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