Altrincham College has been praised by Ofsted for its personal development programme and sixth form, with inspectors highlighting a school where pupils feel “safe and happy”.
The Green Lane secondary school received two “Strong standard” judgements following its inspection in May, for personal development and wellbeing and its post-16 provision.
Achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, and leadership and governance were all judged to meet the “Expected standard”. Safeguarding standards were also met.
Under Ofsted's current grading system, a Strong standard means leaders are working above the standard expected of them, while an Expected standard means the school is fulfilling the expected standard of education or care.
Inspectors described Altrincham College's careers programme as “impressive”, saying pupils were “very well prepared” for future education, employment or training. They also praised its wide range of clubs, leadership roles and cultural experiences.
Headteacher Andrew Keegan said he was particularly pleased that the report had captured what everyday life at the school was like.
“There is a huge amount in the report that we are proud of, but what pleases me most is that it captures the experience of being a pupil at Altrincham College,” he said.
“We want our pupils to leave Altrincham College with strong academic foundations, but also with confidence, character, independence and a genuine sense of belonging.”
Ofsted found pupils enjoyed a “welcoming environment”, formed positive relationships with teachers and each other and felt “settled and happy”. Inspectors also said classrooms were calm and purposeful and that bullying concerns were dealt with quickly.
The report also points to improvements since the school's previous inspection. Inspectors said changes to curriculum delivery meant pupils were now building their knowledge “with greater confidence”, while attendance had shown a “marked improvement over time”.
Mr Keegan said: “We have worked very hard on the quality and sequencing of the curriculum since the last inspection. As Headteacher, that is particularly encouraging because it reflects the sustained work of our teachers and subject leaders.”
The sixth form was another area singled out for praise. Ofsted said A-level outcomes had “improved rapidly in recent times”, while current students demonstrated a “notably sophisticated grasp of subject content”.
Mr Keegan described the outcome as a “genuine team effort”.
“I am really proud of our staff and how they have shown enormous commitment, particularly through periods of change,” he said.
“But I would also emphasise the role our pupils have played. They have responded positively to high expectations and contribute enormously to the culture of the school.
“This outcome belongs to the whole community: staff, pupils, parents and governors.”
Mr Keegan said the report reflected improvements across the school but stressed that Altrincham College would continue to develop.
“I think it tells parents that Altrincham College is a school with high aspirations, a strong sense of community and a clear focus on preparing young people for their future,” he said.
“We are not standing still. A good school should always be looking at what it can do better.
“What makes me proud is that the report recognises the progress we have already made while giving us a clear focus for the next stage.
“Most importantly, it reflects a school where pupils are safe, happy, supported and given the opportunity to achieve and develop as individuals.”
