How our schools fare in Ofsted rating table
New figures have revealed the number of schools rated as outstanding or good in council areas across the Black Country and Staffordshire – and only one place scores higher than the national average.
Sandwell finished top of the class in the region after figures released by the cabinet office showed that 81 per cent of schools inspected by Ofsted in the borough last year were rated as either good or outstanding. The national average is 80 per cent. In Staffordshire, 76 per cent of schools were ranked in the top two categories.
Dudley had 70 per cent, and both Walsall and Wolverhampton had 66 per cent.
Councillor Simon Hackett, cabinet member for children services for Sandwell Council,
said: "I am delighted to see that Ofsted think that the high majority of Sandwell schools are either good or outstanding.
"It's also really pleasing to see that we are doing so well compared to local authorities across the region and also against national figures.
"I'm sure parents of children in Sandwell appreciate having so many good schools so close to them to choose from.
"We have seen our school results improving year on year for the last 10 years so it is encouraging to see that Ofsted have recognised this during inspections."
Last year it was revealed that fewer children attend good or outstanding schools in Wolverhampton than anywhere else in the country.
Councillor Phil Page, Wolverhampton City Council's cabinet member for schools, skills and learning, said: "We are pleased that 66 per cent of schools inspected last year are rated either outstanding or good.
"What we must do is to use the example set by these schools to ensure standards improve to those that are underachieving.
"While school improvement lies with the schools themselves, we will work closely with them to ensure children and young people get the best possible education that they deserve.
"There is a lot of good work being carried out in many Wolverhampton schools. It is important to make sure this happens across the whole city."
Councillor Rachel Andrew, portfolio holder for children's services at Walsall Council, said: "We have got some great schools in Walsall that are a real credit to their pupils, staff and parents, although we know that there is still work to be done to improve the performance of schools in this borough."
Staffordshire County Council education chiefs said they were pleased with their results but improvements could be made.
