Welwyn Garden City School gets ‘good’ Ofsted rating
Monk's Walk School in Welwyn Garden City. Picture: supplied by Monk's Walk School - Credit: supplied by Monk's Walk School
A Welwyn Garden City School is celebrating its second “good” rating in a row.
Monk's Walk School in Welwyn Garden City. Picture: supplied by Monk's Walk School - Credit: supplied by Monk's Walk School
The exacting government inspectors visited Monk’s Walk School on February 6 and found that “the leadership team has maintained the good quality of education in the school since the last inspection”.
The short report, which was published on March 5, found numerous improvements.
Teaching has improved as a result of better training and good hiring practices.
Noting the positive relationship between pupils and teachers, the report also said that pupils’ attainment was improving, tutor groups are now smaller, and students get better advice.
Monk's Walk School in Welwyn Garden City. Picture: supplied by Monk's Walk School - Credit: supplied by Monk's Walk School
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“Students are incredibly grateful for the support that they receive,” said the report. “One student commented, ‘They make every effort to help everyone.’”
The report also noted that “where progress is particularly strong it is as a result of teachers’ deep subject knowledge, which they use to check pupils’ understanding, clarify their misconceptions and challenge their thinking”.
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The school has also taken steps to address its below-average A-level results with a review of sixth form provision.
Monk’s Walk’s average A-level grade in 2017 was a C, while the national average is C+.
Monk's Walk School in Welwyn Garden City. Picture: supplied by Monk's Walk School - Credit: supplied by Monk's Walk School
One of the next steps noted was to ensure that the recent changes made to the sixth form are followed through.
The report noted that the school is “passionate” about ensuring disadvantaged pupils succeed, and that between 2016 and 2017 their progress increased significantly.
A point of action was to reduce the difference in progress between disadvantaged boys and all pupils nationally.
Mrs Kate Smith, headteacher at Monk’s Walk, said: “We are delighted with our Ofsted report.
Monk's Walk School in Welwyn Garden City. Picture: supplied by Monk's Walk School - Credit: supplied by Monk's Walk School
“The report acknowledges that there have been even further improvements since the last inspection.
“I am particularly proud that Ofsted recognises the fact that we are an inclusive school, working hard to improve the outcomes of all students.
“I would like to thank and congratulate our wonderful staff, trustees, students and parents for supporting the school and ensuring this great outcome.”
Monk’s Walk School transferred to academy status in 2012.
