Ofsted Pilot Inspection: Vandyke recognised for culture of care and high achievement

Vandyke Upper School was recently chosen to take part in the recent Ofsted national pilot inspection programme. After spending two days in the school, the team of inspectors congratulated Vandyke for its student well-being and ambitious academic standards. Although the pilot inspection does not result in a formal report, Leah Ferguson-Moore, Headteacher, has said, “We are delighted that the pilot inspection team’s feedback confirms our strong, positive culture where students feel safe, known, and deeply valued as individuals.”

The feedback the school received highlights robust safeguarding as a core strength, supported by rigorous systems and a vigilant staff who act as strong advocates for every pupil. Furthermore, interventions and support for more vulnerable learners are applied with absolute precision, leading to successful transitions and academic outcomes for all students.

Academically, Vandyke was commended for its ambitious and thoughtful curriculum design. The positive learning atmosphere is mirrored in students’ conduct in lessons and around the school site. Behaviour is marked by self-discipline and respect, ensuring lessons are genuinely conducive to learning.

The Post-16 provision was also commended as a strength. The sixth form and its broad and varied offer of courses enables strong academic opportunities and the careers guidance all students receive was celebrated as a stand-out feature.

Leah Ferguson-Moore added, “The whole school feels very proud to have been chosen to be part of the national conversation about how schools should be inspected. We are very pleased that our commitment to high achievement was recognised as being a direct result of a culture built on care, support and community.”