A HEAD teacher has expressed his delight after an inspection showed his school continues to be good. 

Thomas Keble School has been rated as good following a short Ofsted inspection on July 3 and 4. 

In the report, pupils were described by inspectors as ‘polite’, ‘respectful’ and who are ‘keen to do their best’. 

Inspectors praised the Eastcombe school for creating a ‘nurturing environment’ where pupils feel part of a ‘supportive family’. 

According to the report, the school also supports students with SEND by adapting their learning and collaborating with agencies, where as a result, pupils are "well prepared for their next steps."

The report states that teachers are ‘knowledgeable about their subjects and present new information clearly.’

Meanwhile, pupils told inspectors they were proud of the range of extracurricular activities available and mentioned their recent performance of Billy Elliot. 

Head teacher Steve Shaw said: “We all feel so proud of our school and we were anxious that our visitors found the real Thomas Keble. 

“I am glad to say that our community rose to the occasion, and it was moving to see everyone pull together so positively and effectively.

Stroud News and Journal: Thomas Keble head teacher Steve Shaw said he was proud of pupils and staff following the result Thomas Keble head teacher Steve Shaw said he was proud of pupils and staff following the result (Image: Thomas Keble School)

“We were able to successfully help the inspectors understand our vision for the school. 

“Most importantly, they saw that this is a safe and happy community with opportunities and high expectations for all our learners. 

“The inspection experience was challenging but ultimately rewarding. 

“I am truly grateful to all the parents who supported us through the process, whether it was by completing the parent view questionnaire or via the many emails we received wishing us well. 

“I would also like to thank our staff who do what they do every day to improve outcomes and opportunities for our students. 

“And to the students, who the report says feel happy and safe at this school, thank you for being such wonderful ambassadors for Thomas Keble.”

The report reads: “Leaders have designed a rigorous and cohesive programme to support pupils’ wider development. 

“Leaders ensure that pupils who have developed gaps in their reading knowledge are
identified quickly. 

“Teachers are knowledgeable about their subjects and present new information clearly.”

However, the inspection says to improve, when referring to low-level disruption, the school should ensure that all staff are supported to deal with behaviour. 

But inspectors do state a new behaviour system has been launched with year 9, which has so far ‘raised expectations and is fair’. 

The report also states the school should use ‘assessment strategies successfully to identify and close gaps in learning more rapidly’.

You can view the full report here - tinyurl.com/bdhyk4ta