Fleetwood High School praised by Ofsted for its response to Covid

The school was one of several schools from across the region contacted by the school inspectorate to help parents and the public understand how effectively the school handled the first lockdown, and how they are managing the return to the normal curriculum. In the letter, the inspectors said that the review was part of “important national work”.

During the visit the inspector noted: “Leaders have adapted the personal, social, health and economic education curriculum to prioritise pupils’ mental health and well-being.”

It was also acknowledged that the high school has: “Enhanced their remote education provision. The school explained that their online resources align as closely as possible with subject curriculums. Pupils who are absent are using these to keep up with their work.”

The school’s attention to detail to support new Year 7 students who may have struggled during lockdown was also highlighted, with inspectors highlighting that: “Staff are providing additional support to help these pupils get back on track.”

The report is one of a number of initiatives undertaken by the school to support the response of the wider community to Covid-19.

The Design and Technology Department provided hundreds of pieces of PPE to the NHS. In addition to this, the school was busy distributing food parcels, vouchers and prescriptions to those shielding within the community. Many students have also been volunteering their time to initiatives like the local food bank.

Headteacher Richard Barnes said: “Despite the fact that the school continues to face unprecedented challenges, it’s amazing to see how our staff keep going above and beyond to support our students and our local community.”

In a further commitment to prioritising their student’s academic progression, the school has appointed extra teachers in English and Maths from the start of the term to provide additional ‘catch up’ sessions to help students who may have fallen behind during the lockdown.

Mr Barnes added: “Supporting the learning and development of our students is at the heart of what we do here at Fleetwood High School. Our commitment to promoting academic success following these grave challenges is unwavering, and it is great to see that Ofsted has acknowledged this in our recent short report.”