Shropshire school makes 'enormously proud' pupils 'the best version' of themselves, say Ofsted inspectors

A Newport grammar school has been given high praise by Ofsted inspectors in a freshly published report.

Haberdashers' Adams in Newport has been rated as meeting a ‘strong standard’ in all areas examined by the education watchdog.

Since November last year, Ofsted has used a five-point grading scale to rate seven areas of a school, including achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance, personal development and wellbeing, and post-16 provision.

The system, which replaced the single-word overall judgements, labels each area as either being exceptional, strong standard, expected standard, needs attention or urgent improvement.

Haberdashers’ Adams latest report, published on Monday, stated that inspectors found “unfailingly polite, well-mannered and courteous” pupils during their recent visit.

Alongside a “wide range of extra-curricular opportunities”, the report praised the “ambitious curriculum” taught at “a consistently high standard” by staff who “feel valued and are proud to work at the school”.

“Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who are disadvantaged, are enormously proud to attend Haberdashers' Adams,” the report concluded.

“They thoroughly enjoy school and believe that it ‘makes me be the best version of myself’.

“Pupils enjoy their lessons and value the support they receive from teachers and their peers. In public examinations, pupils at key stage 4 and students in the sixth form consistently achieve above national averages.

“Those who join in Year 7 and students who join in the sixth form settle quickly and soon become proud members of the school community.”

Commenting on the outcome, Headteacher Mr Daniel Biggins said: “This outcome is a testament to the tireless dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm and commitment of our students, and the unwavering support of our families, governors and wider community.

“We are particularly proud that this inspection captured exactly what it feels like to be a member of Haberdashers’ Adams.

“The report recognises the extent to which every student is valued, developed and celebrated, while also highlighting the ambition, care and opportunity that define our school.

“Achieving ‘Strong Standard’ across all seven areas is a tremendous accomplishment and one that reflects the collective efforts of everyone who contributes to life at Adams.”

The full report is available to view online on the Ofsted website.