A WINCHESTER School has been rated “Outstanding” following an inspection by Ofsted.

Westgate School, on Cheriton Road, received the grade after inspectors visited on November 14 and November 15.

Headteacher Fae Dean said: “Inspectors were incredibly impressed by our pupils, our school and the strength of our community of learning all through.

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%image('17608024', type="article-full", alt="Westgate School Winchester")“Given the extremely high level of challenge in this current Ofsted framework, we are delighted that our school has been recognised so positively through the inspection process.

“Thank you to everybody for your partnership which has enabled us to achieve such high standards for children and pupils in our school.”

The Ofsted report said: “Pupils embody the school’s motto of ‘learning together, achieving excellence’ at this excellent all-through school. Staff have remarkably high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils rise to meet these consistently. As a result, pupils achieve exceptionally well.

“The school is highly ambitious for all pupils. The curriculum is meticulously planned. ‘Golden threads’ run throughout, linking learning in the early years to specialist subjects in the primary and secondary phases. This coherent approach means that knowledge, skills and understanding develop and deepen over time very effectively. Early and accurate identification of pupils’ needs ensures that pupils with SEND get the help they need as soon as possible.

“Teaching is expertly adapted so that disadvantaged pupils, including pupils with SEND, learn exceptionally well. The school ensures that everyone studies a broad and challenging curriculum. At key stage 4, a large proportion of pupils gain qualifications in the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. This means that they are extremely well prepared for the next stages of their education.

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“Staff are highly skilled. Their subject knowledge is very strong. Regular opportunities to share expertise across phases mean that pupils benefit from a coherent and specialist curriculum across the school.

“Regular checks on pupils’ learning enable teachers to accurately identify what pupils know and remember. Pupils’ sophisticated understanding of their learning means they can explain their thinking confidently and accurately.

“The school places a very high priority on the development and training of staff. There is a strong focus on excellence in all areas. Staff value the opportunities to refine their knowledge and skills deeply. Governance is a strength of the school. Governors are knowledgeable and passionate. They provide highly effective support and challenge. Leaders support staff very well.

“Staff are incredibly proud to work at this school.”