Inspectors praise school sixth form (From Free Press Series)

Inspectors praise school sixth form

GOVERNMENT school Inspectors have praised the sixth form education at Monmouth Comprehensive saying that it is "of a particular strength both in terms of the standards achieved and the quality of education provided".

In the report, 92 percent of sixth form classes covering 27 A-level courses were judged to be good or very good.

Inspector Glynis Owen also recognised the very wide range of opportunities available to students.

The inspector noted that as well as achieving high standards, teachers were supportive of their students and generous in the time they gave to individuals.

There has been a significant increase in the number of staff who offer pastoral care, as well as heads of year and form tutors, a full-time health professional and part time counsellor.

Monmouth Comprehen-sive school has 1,668 pupils with 302 studying in Years 12 and 13. "We take an holistic approach," said head teacher Carole Anderson.

"I am glad the report has recognised the importance of the whole experience of being at school as well as the exam results achieved. The inspectors have reported on the good things that we do and they have pointed out where there is scope for improvement as well. "There will never be complacency in Monmouth Comprehensive.

"We achieve a great deal but we will always be on a journey of continual improvement so that all our students achieve their very best."

Among the shortcomings listed in the report were statistics that showed girls out-performed boys.

Miss Owen added: "Boys do less well than girls, and the gap in performance in examinations in 2003 was wider than the gap nationally."

The report also highlighted that a significant minority of pupils at Key Stage 3 and 4 did not show appropriate respect for staff, visitors or the environment.

The chairman of governors, Stuart McLester, said: "The governors are pleased with the report's clear indication of improving standards from an already good position. This is positive for all our students.

"Policies now in place have proved to be successful and with a leadership team only two years in post, further hard work by the whole school community will reap rich, long-lasting rewards."

The report can be viewed on the school website and is also available from the school. A sixth form prospectus can also be obtained from the school.