Northampton all-through school rated 'good' again after critical 'wake up' report two years ago

A Northampton all-through school has shaken off a weak inspection report it was given two years ago and is back in good graces with the education watchdog.

Caroline Chisholm School, in Wootton Fields, has been rated as "good" again in its latest visit by Ofsted after it was scolded by inspectors two years ago.

In 2017, inspectors called out Caroline Chisholm's leaders out for being "too generous" in their opinion of the school's quality. Pupils were not being challenged in class and the qualiy of teaching was not high enough across the town.

Now, the academy has been rated good in all areas and was even ranked as "outstanding" in its early year's provision.

The report reads: "Caroline Chisholm School is an improving school. Expectations are high. Pupils receive a good quality of education, particularly in the primary phase and the sixth form

"Most pupils are happy and say that they are well looked after. Most say that they have either not experienced any bullying or that they are confident that any issues which do arise will be sorted.

"Children thrive in Reception and settle into school well. The curriculum is designed to stimulate children’s interests. The vibrant environment adds to children’s enjoyment of learning."

However, Ofsted still picked up on some weaknesses in its secondary and key stage three provision.

The report reads: "As one parent put it, however, ‘Primary is very strong; secondary ought to be.’

"The quality of education at key stage 3 is not consistently good across all subjects. Pupils do not always receive the demanding work they are capable of in some subjects.

Principal David James said: “I am immensely proud of the effort and commitment of all staff and students to ensure that we were able to get back to a ‘good’ status school.

"I am fully aware that our new rating would not have been possible without the continued support and effort of everyone pulling together to see us through. There is more to do, and I am looking forward to continuing to work with [all students, parents, carers and our dedicated staff]to ensure the students at Caroline Chisholm School receive the very best education that we can give them.”