HAUTE Vallée has been “transformed” with “very considerable improvement in recent years”, according to the school’s latest review.
The assessment – led by eight independent UK reviewers who visited the school over three days in October – found that Haute Vallée for Years 7 to 11 was “well led and governed” and provided a “very valuable service to its pupils and the community”.
Head teacher Stuart Hughes said he was “delighted” that the review recognised the “incredible transformation that has taken place at Haute Vallée” and that it has “reaffirmed that we are well and truly on our path to outstanding”.
“I am immensely proud that the students and staff were able to demonstrate the deep-rooted culture of learning and the care that exists in our school,” he continued.
“This review highlights the pride our pupils have in their school and their positive, productive learning behaviours. The students obviously enjoy explaining their learning and are pleased with their progress.”
The report particularly noted “strong” GCSE results across most subjects and the ability of older pupils to “explain confidently their future aspirations and good ambitions”.
“Leaving destinations” were also positive, with pupils moving on to “relevant and carefully chosen further education” – while Mr Hughes said there were “more than ever” progressing towards Level 3 (A-level or equivalent courses) rather than Level 2, GCSE, courses. The report continued: “Pupils’ behaviour in lessons is attentive and keen. They want to learn and to help and support each other. They believe the school is on their side. Their relationships with each other and their teachers are strong, which leads to a positive atmosphere in lessons and around the school. Pupils also feel that the school’s points system, to reward good behaviour, is encouraging.”
It also found that the school is “very welcoming to pupils from all diverse backgrounds and cultures. Leaders ensure that pupils who are multilingual learners are well supported, and this provision is being sensibly further developed.”
Despite the positives, the report recommended further improvements to the school curriculum to ensure that “all subjects have, and continue to develop, a well sequenced, ambitious, programme of learning which efficiently builds on what has gone before and leads clearly to what will come next.”
It also recommended that it should continue to improve pupils’ attendance and reduce the rate of exclusions.
During the review, the team spoke to pupils and observed lessons across all year groups, toured the school’s facilities, and discussed school evaluations and plans with leaders. The views of parents and staff were considered through surveys, which were available in different languages for parents.
