Students, staff and governors at Fitzwaryn School in Wantage are celebrating today after Ofsted has once again rated the school ‘Outstanding’ in all areas, recognising its continued success. The school, which is part of the Propeller Academy Trust (PAT), was previously rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in October 2014.

The inspectors described how Fitzwaryn School is a “joyful place to learn” and how “staff make sure that pupils are known, understood, nurtured and kept very safe”. They said how “staff teach pupils how to communicate positively about how they are feeling” and how “consequently, pupils’ behaviour is superb”.

Ofsted also noted that “Pupils and parents told us how much they love the school, as one parent said - it does not get any better than the team at Fitzwaryn, they have been integral to the progress my child is making”.

The glowing report, which followed a two-day inspection carried out in May, noted that “Leaders and governors are clear that the purpose of the school’s curriculum is to help pupils gain the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their future lives. Leaders and staff use their comprehensive knowledge about each pupil’s special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) to make sure that the quality of education that pupils receive is exceptional”.

The letter also stated that “Students in the sixth form are exceptionally well prepared for their next stages. Careers advice and work experience help them to plan for their futures”.

Stephanie Coneboy, Headteacher, said “We are all exceptionally pleased and so very proud of the pupils who were absolutely remarkable during the inspection; they were so courteous to the inspection team and answered all questions with honesty and clarity. They told the inspection team that they were very happy at school. I couldn’t be prouder of the staff for working so very hard to achieve this result and would like to thank each and every one of them for all that they do each and every day - they are truly an amazing team! One staff member said to the inspector that they had a ‘golden ticket’ to be working at the school!”.

Julie Mabberley, Chair of Governors, said “I would like to add my thanks to all of my fellow governors (past and present), our wonderful staff and most importantly to the pupils and families who make this all worthwhile. Congratulations everyone!”.

Tom Pegler, CEO of The Propeller Academy Trust, said, “It is fantastic news that, once again, Fitzwaryn has been judged as an outstanding school. This is a reflection of all the hard work, dedication and skill of all the staff and the wonderful contributions of its pupils. All of us at Propeller Trust are thrilled and proud to have Fitzwaryn blazing a trail of excellence”.

Jane Edwards, Chair of Trustees, The Propeller Academy Trust, said “As Chair of the Trust, I am delighted to read this report; it is a fabulous reflection of Fitzwaryn School and all that it stands for. Congratulations to everyone, this fantastic achievement is fully deserved”.