Northgate High School in Ipswich praised by Ofsted

Staff and students at an Ipswich secondary school described as a ‘tight-knit community’ are celebrating after being praised by inspectors.

Ofsted said students at Northgate High School, in Sidegate Lane, performed well due to a broad and ambitious curriculum.

In addition, its extra-curricular activities were highlighted as a one of the school’s strengths, as they ensured pupils broadened their development, the report said.

The school secured an outstanding rating for behaviour and attitudes, and good ratings in all other categories – quality of education, personal development, leadership and management and sixth form provision.

Rowena Mackie, headteacher, said: “We are pleased that Ofsted has recognised the many strengths of our school.

“Our students are the heart of the school and they fully embrace our values of respect, determination and teamwork.

“We have great teachers and support staff who work hard to provide the best opportunities and support for our students.

“The real challenge for us will be sustaining both our broad curriculum offer, and pastoral care for our students, in the face of very difficult financial constraints brought on by years of inadequate funding.”

Andrew Robinson, lead inspector, said pupils at Northgate were exceptionally well-behaved both in lessons and around the school, were polite, considerate and highly respectful to staff.

Excellent subject knowledge allowed students at both the secondary school and sixth form to perform well.

Mr Robinson also said Northgate had a wide range of strategies to develop reading, with weaker readers being quickly identified and supported to become more fluent and confident.

The report also highlighted that staff enjoyed the sense of community, which was described as ‘tight-knit’.

However, learning was not well adapted enough to meet the needs of some pupils with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), the report said.

Mr Robinson added: “Pupils in all key stages receive highly effective careers education and guidance. The school encourages pupils to be aspirational for their future.

“Students in the sixth form appreciate the wide range of subjects they can study. In sixth form, the ‘Aspire’ programme helps students to access the very best universities.

“After sixth form, high proportions of students enter further education, employment or training successfully.

“Students in the sixth form appreciate the opportunities they have to succeed and appreciate that leaders listen to their views.”