Failing school recovers in record time

WARRINGTON’S St Gregory’s High School has recovered from being placed in special measures in record time.
Following the most recent Ofsted inspection in December the school has been upgraded to the next rating – “requires improvement.”
This is regarded as a very significant achievement in such a short timescale as schools are normally given two years to come out of special measures.
In their report the Ofsted inspectors note that the appointment of a highly experienced head teacher has improved significantly the school’s capacity for accelerated improvement and the strengthened senior leadership team has a clear focus on establishing high quality provision.
They also note that the school’s work to keep students safe and secure is good and attendance rates have improved.
The governance of the school was highlighted with the report stating that governors are effective, aspirational and remorseless in their drive for further and sustained school improvement.
Headteacher Paul Heitzman said: “What a difference a year makes and we are absolutely delighted and are celebrating this as a real achievement. To do this within 11 months is a great success and is testimony to the pace of change and the impact of that change in such a short time.
“It’s taken a lot of hard work but we have been determined to make significant improvements right from the start.
“The report confirms the views of myself, the governing body, senior leadership team, the Archdiocese and the council about the rapid improvements that have taken place and have begun to impact across all areas of the school.
“This removal of special measures is to be celebrated but it is only the first step. The overall aim is to ensure that St. Gregory’s is outstanding in all aspects within the next 18 months. I am very confident that this will be achieved.”
Chairman of governors Alan Bell said: “I want to thank pupils, parents, staff, the local parish, associated primary schools, the Archdiocese and the council for their continued support throughout this journey of improvement.”
Cllr Jean Carter (pictured), Warrington Borough Council’s lead member for children and young people’s services, said: “This is a significant achievement and well done to everyone who has been supporting the school. We have been and will continue to provide a package of support to the school and work with staff, governors and the Liverpool Archdiocese to help make more positive changes and further improve standards.”
The school will continue to carry out its action plan of improvement which includes addressing the recommendations in the Ofsted report.