Head's delight as her school is rated '˜good'

The Forest School, in Comptons Lane, underwent a two-day inspection in March and the findings were published on April 3.

A team of inspectors led by Sarah Hubbard described the school as “well led”, the behaviour of the boys as “very courteous and considerate” and the quality of teaching as “generally strong”.

In her report, Ms Hubbard said: “The school has a very positive environment. Consequently, pupils are highly receptive to learning and most make strong progress from their starting points.”

Headteacher Siobhan Denning said: “I am absolutely delighted by the result. The report recognises the hard work of staff, pupils, governors and parents and celebrates Forest as a good school.

“I was especially pleased to hear one of the inspectors describe the behaviour of the boys as ‘impeccable’.”

In lessons, the boys were seen to be “well motivated” by the work their teachers set, and Ms Hubbard said they relished the opportunities for healthy debate and discussion those lessons provided.

The inspectors were particularly impressed with the schools’ work to promote pupils’ personal development and welfare, describing it as “outstanding”.

Their report stated: “Of note, are the incredibly high levels of courtesy that permeate through the school. Pupils are considerate and they speak enthusiastically about their learning, appreciating the additional experiences and support that their teachers provide.”

When it came to the need for further improvement as Forest works towards Ofsted’s top ‘outstanding’ rating, Ms Hubbard and her team advised any decisions made about the curriculum were “analysed in depth”.

With persistent absence among some disadvantaged pupils remaining “too high”, she added new approaches should be explored to reduce those figures.

Chairman of governors, Cliff Purvis, said: “Of course I am delighted with the result which echoes what we already knew, that Forest is a very good school. As a parent in Horsham, to have a choice of such excellent secondary schools is wonderful.

“I must offer my thanks to Siobhan, and all the staff, pupils and parents who have worked so hard to make Forest such as fantastic school community.”

To read the report in full, log on to the Ofsted website.

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