Oldbury Wells School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school. The proportion of students gaining five or more GCSE passes at A* to C grades, including English and mathematics, is improving rapidly and is now above national averages Students make good progress as a result of teaching that is usually good and sometimes outstanding. Teachers plan lessons that are carefully matched to the different needs of students in their class.

Questioning is used well to probe and challenge students' understanding. Students enjoy being at school and behave well. They feel safe and treat each other with respect.

The headteacher provides highly effective leadership and is well supported by senior leaders and the rec...ently introduced cluster group leaders. The governing body shares her vision of a highly inclusive school, committed to providing high quality education for all students. The sixth form is good.

Students make good progress as a result of teaching that is sharply focused on individual needs and effectively develops independent learning skills. It is not yet an outstanding school because : Some teaching requires improvement. In these lessons teachers give too much direction and their questioning does not develop students' learning.

On occasions, marking does not give students useful advice on how to improve. For the past three years attendance had been improving. However, this year attendance has dipped and is below the national average.

There is some variation in the achievement of students in different subject areas. Students achieve very well in humanities and design and technology but do less well in modern foreign language and science.

Information about this school

The school is a smaller than average secondary school.

Almost all students are from White British backgrounds. The proportion of students for whom the school receives additional funding through the pupil premium (additional funding for looked after children, pupils known to be eligible for free school meals, or those who have a parent in the armed forces) is lower than average. The proportion of disabled students and those who have special educational needs supported through school action is below the national average.

The proportion supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is also below national averages The school meets the current government floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for students' progress and attainment in English and mathematics. A small group of students in Years 10 and 11 undertake part-time vocational courses at Idsall School and another student receives full-time provision through the Shropshire Tuition, Medical and Behaviour Support Service. Sixth form provision is provided in partnership with the Bridgnorth Endowed School.