Head of high school near Ripon wants to 'build on success' of strong Ofsted Inspection

A secondary school near Ripon has received an Ofsted report praising it for being “calm, welcoming and ambitious” under the new ratings system.

Bedale High School has been commended for its rapid transformation after achieving a strong standard across all areas.

Inspectors highlighted the significant progress in achievement, attendance, behaviour and wellbeing at Bedale High School which has been made under headteacher Chris Stokes and his staff under the new inspection framework.

Mr Stokes, who joined two years ago shortly after the previous inspection, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the report, which recognises the tremendous progress that has been made across every aspect of school life.

“It reflects the school we see every day - a calm, inclusive and ambitious environment where pupils feel valued, want to learn and achieve their very best.

“We are particularly pleased that inspectors recognised the major improvements in attendance, behaviour, achievement and the quality of education, as well as the strength of our support for vulnerable pupils.”

Ofsted Inspectors found that pupils were achieving well with standards rising quickly and gaps in learning closing.

They also recognised the strength of teaching, the school's ambitious curriculum and the high-quality support provided for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The outcome marks a significant milestone for the school, which was judged as requiring improvement after a previous Ofsted inspection two years ago.

Mr Stokes said: “While we are proud of how far we have come, we remain committed to building on this success and ensuring every young person at this school continues to benefit from the highest standards of education, support and opportunity.”

In the Ofsted report, attendance and behaviour were singled out as particular strengths.

Attendance is now in line with national figures and continues to improve.

Inspectors also commended the school's inclusive culture, recognising the care taken to ensure every pupil is supported to thrive.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, Coun Annabel Wilkinson, said: “This glowing inspection outcome for Bedale High School is a clear reflection of the hard work, commitment and ambition."