Glowing report for impressive school

Government inspectors have given a Staffordshire school the thumbs up in their latest inspection. Great Wyrley Performing Arts High School recently hosted Ofsted inspectors who said the school had an "impressive" performance.

The inspection report said: "In 2007 there was an impressive improvement in performance with a 17 per cent increase in the proportion of students achieving five or more higher grades A*-C." They added that there was an "improving curriculum, supported by the school's performing arts specialism".

They added that "this is providing more opportunities in drama that students appreciate, improvements in facilities and further investment in information and communication technology, which is a strength of the school."

Teachers were praised for their good subject knowledge and engagement with students who inspectors said were willing to listen and had positive attitudes.

The inspectors also said: "There is a range of popular extra-curricular activities especially in sport, music and drama, which extend student experiences and contribute to personal development.

"The extended curriculum for the sixth form is good."

Headteacher Chris Leach said: "We are very pleased with these comments and I am particularly proud of those made to the inspectors by the students because if we are to continue improving and developing to achieve the best possible deal for all our young people, then relationships will need to continue to be open and strong.

"We do have some aspects that need to improve and we had already begun work on these before the inspection and we shall continue now that the process is completed. These will form the basis of our school improvement plan for 2008-2009 and beyond."