Sky's the limit for school!

2:43pm Thursday 13th March 2008

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ANOTHER school has chalked up an impressive Ofsted inspection.

Commonweal School has joined Highworth Warneford, which the Advertiser profiled yesterday, in being handed a great set of Ofsted results.

Inspectors descended on the school in January and talked to parents, pupils and teachers about how the school measures up.

In a letter to Commonweal pupils lead inspector Peter Limm said he was impressed with the wide range of lessons available.

He said: "Your school is providing you with a good quality all-round education that will serve you well in your future.

"We noted the wide range of choices available, particularly the number of clubs and out-of-lesson activities.

"We thought the additional opportunities in the performing arts are excellent."

The school was ranked good' in nearly all areas apart from the extent to which learners make a positive contribution to the community and the extent to which governors and other supervisory boards discharge their responsibilities - both ranked as outstanding'.

Headteacher Keith Defter, pictured, said he was thrilled with the report.

He said: "We already know that Commonweal is a good school but to have inspectors from an outside body such as Ofsted come in and agree with us is fantastic."

Mr Limm identified just three areas of improvement at the school.

He said that all lessons should be planned to engage pupils actively in tasks, that the school should provide additional support in Key Stage 3 for those who need it and although students told inspectors they were happy with their school buildings, the school accommodation is in need of some improvement.

"In the meantime you can help by making sure cramped spaces do not become unsafe for you," Mr Limm told the pupils in his letter.

He added: "The commitment of teaching and support staff is ensuring your progress is good and often excellent, especially for those of you with learning difficulties or disabilities.

"The collaboration of teachers, teaching assistants and administrative staff is also good.

"There is much to celebrate."

Mr Defter added: "We're very pleased with the outcome of the report and are always working hard to make Commonweal an even better school."