A school previously criticised for not dealing with “bullying, racism and sexual harassment" has made a remarkable transformation to be graded 'Good' by Ofsted.
Applemore College, a secondary school in Dibden Purlieu, was rated as ‘Requires Improvement’ in July 2022.
Only one category – the quality of education – was previously rated as good.
The report highlighted that a minority of students used "unkind, racist, homophobic or sexualised language towards each other".
This is completely different in its 2024 report, which says that “inappropriate language is extremely rare, and any instances are dealt with quickly and effectively.”
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In the new report Applemore College has been graded as 'Good' in all areas.
Ofsted’s inspection concluded that “teachers have high expectations of pupils’ behaviour and commitment” and that pupils feel “happy and safe”.
Ms Williams said: “There is an openness and transparency about Applemore which I have hoped to bring. A clearer vision, set of values, culture of inclusivity, integrity and authenticity. We work in a positive, ambitious and shared way as a whole school team, creating more of a sense of empathy and connectiveness.
“This is a report we should all be proud of, a report which recognises the supportive and compassionate relationships between staff and pupils, actively embedded values and sense of purpose which permeates the school.”
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The inspection also noted that pupils made it clear that they have a “trusted adult to go to if they have any concerns.”
The school on Roman Road last received a 'Good' rating in 2013 and have stamped out all concerns about behaviour in their latest report.
Ms Williams continued: “We have worked really hard as a school on systems and processes and the frequency and regularity of how these are communicated, particularly around behaviour.
“This has included a centralised behaviour system, an agreed and shared common language around behaviour, clearer communication with the whole Applemore community to ensure clarity of understanding, a highly valued rewards system, a much-increased student voice, closer working across year groups and Pastoral teams.”
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