Ofsted gives highest praise to Claverham

The Battle school came under the scrutiny of inspectors back in June and despite challenging new standards set by Ofsted, Claverham gained an ‘Oustanding’ grade in every single category - Achievement of Pupils, Quality of Teaching, Behaviour and Safety of Pupils and Leadership and Management.

The report noted that students’ achievements are ‘outstanding, regardless of their starting point’ with attainment above the national average. Meanwhile the students themselves were praised for their respectful behaviour and for offering a warm welcome to visitors.

The inspection team said many lessons were ‘exciting and engaging’ with parents and pupils alike full of praise for teaching at Claverham.

And of the leadership, the report noted: “The principal offers a clear and visionary future for the college.

“His calm approach ensures that leadership at all levels, including governance, is ambitious and geared to improving the college.

“Continual improvement and refinement of the college’s systems ensures that it successfully maintains excellence across all aspects of its work.”

Monica Whitehead, chair of governors said: “Governors have always been confident that Claverham has not been resting on its laurels since our outstanding 2007 Ofsted judgement and that principal, Paul Swatton and the leadership team have continued to improve the school.

“To have this affirmed by the rigour of this latest inspection is truly fantastic.

“We are delighted and very proud of the achievements of the school and it is the hard work and commitment of all the staff and pupils that has been rewarded by this outstanding judgement.”

Mr Swatton said: “I am extremely pleased that the inspectors recognised the commitment of all associated with the college.

“The inspectors were impressed by the achievements and behaviour of our pupils.

“The result of this inspection is a testament to the dedication of staff and governors.

“All are committed to continued improvement and having the highest possible expectations for our pupils.

“Nevertheless, I can assure parents that we are continually looking for ways to develop the college to ensure that we achieve the best possible outcomes for all our pupils.

“As always, I would like to thank parents for their support and thank pupils, staff and governors for everything they do to make the college successful.

“I am confident the community approach adopted by all members of the college makes us outstanding.

“I know that staff are quite rightly proud of this report, and hope that everyone reading it shares this sense of pride.”

Jan Newton, a long serving governor at Claverham, offered congratulations to all involved at the college – staff, pupils, parents and carers.

She said: “The school is outstanding in all areas; Leadership and Management, Pupils’ Achievement, Quality of Teaching and Learning and Behaviour and Safety of Pupils.

“This is well deserved and has come about through hard work and dedication.

“I look forward to many more years of success for Claverham Community College.”

Many well-wishers have contacted Claverham to offer their congratulations since the news of the Outstanding Ofsted broke.

Battle’s county councillor Kathryn Field said: “Please will you pass on my congratulations to all concerned for an excellent Ofsted report.”

One parent emailed, “Absolutely excellent news. All four of my children have attended Claverham and I am very pleased with the school. Thank you to everyone for all your hard work.”

Another parent wrote, “Congratulations to Mr Swatton and his amazing team. We are so chuffed with your success.”

Another pleased parent added: “What a great report. Sincere congratulations to every pupil and member of staff for creating such an admirable educational environment.”