Brighton school retains 'good' rating from Ofsted

Varndean School continues to be 'good', according to education inspectors who visited the school in July this year.

Ofsted inspector Clare Gillies said: "Many aspects of school life have moved into a higher gear, from achievement to behaviour, and pastoral care to the curriculum."

She also said the quality of the teaching at the school had been 'strengthened', which has resulted in improved progress for pupils in all years and in better GCSE results.

She said: "Pupils now feel confident about how to improve their work, and typically behave well and work hard in lessons. The percentage of pupils attaining good grades in GCSE English and mathematics examinations in 2016 was just above average.

"Results were convincingly above average in several curriculum areas, such as technology and computer subjects, Spanish, sports and media studies.

Headteacher William Aristide-Deighan was praised, and the inspector said: "Under your leadership, your deputy headteachers and other members of the senior leadership team have become increasingly effective. You insist on high standards of teaching throughout the school. You make sure that teachers’ skills are constantly improved by providing relevant and useful training sessions and by visiting and working with other schools to share best practice."

The successful establishment of four 'schools' - or houses - contributed to students feeling safe, happy and a sense of belonging, the report said.

The inspector noted the school has 'the best attendance in the local authority, and that pupil's behaviour had improved since the last inspection.

There was also praise for the pupils' contribution to the local community, in raising fund for charity.

And safeguarding at the school was effective, according to the report, with pupils being regularly advised about the dangers of social media, and staff have been brought up to date on recognising the signs of female genital mutilation, domestic abuse and radicalisation.

The report said: "Case studies reveal the thorough and well-considered practical and emotional support that the school provides, particularly for children looked after and vulnerable pupils."

The inspector concluded: "During our visit, we confirmed that the curriculum as a whole, the culture of the school and the quality of pupils’ personal development and well-being are still good."

Mr Aristide-Deighan, headteacher, said: “I am deeply appreciative of the hard work and commitment of our staff, governors, students and their families that make Varndean School such a special place.

"I hope you enjoy reading the report. We've already moved on with the wonderful job that is Varndean School.’’

To read the report in full, click here.