Ofsted ‘More Able Students’

Prince Henry’s featured positively in recent Ofsted publication.

On Wednesday 5^th March 2015, Ofsted published its report on More Able Students.  This report was very critical, particularly towards secondary schools, where it is deemed higher ability pupils do not make enough progress from their attainment at aged 11 to their attainment at aged 16.

However, Prince Henry’s was a school that was mentioned in this report and we featured very favourably.  The extract on page 21 reads as follows:-

“Prince Henry’s High School
This large high school (13-18) is excellent at raising students’ awareness of higher education and preparing them for the next phase of their education.

Students receive strong careers support from Year 9, with a clear emphasis on top universities for the most able students. Parents are involved in careers guidance, especially in Year 11, where the most able students are encouraged to study four facilitating subjects. The school makes effective use of its links with universities in providing seminars and signposting students to lectures, open days and other events.

Year 13 students focus on UCAS applications and practice interviews in the autumn term. The varied range of activities continues and they benefit from visiting speakers who give them valuable information. Any students who demonstrate potential not previously identified are encouraged to reconsider their plans with tailored support. Over a quarter of students in each of the last two years gained places at Russell Group universities.”

Dr. Evans commented

“Naturally I am grateful to all the support and effort that colleagues are making to ensure enhanced progress for our More Able students.  I am delighted Prince Henry’s students and staff received the recognition they deserved.  A number of colleagues and students participated in this inspection visit and they showed Prince Henry’s at its very best.  Also, a special thank you to Keith Watson, who on behalf of the Governing body, met with Gwen Coates HMI during her visit, and subsequently provided a detailed account regarding the findings of the Inspection. This has already been published on our website.”

See the full publication on Ofsted’s website.