WHITCHURCH’S secondary school is celebrating after it was declared ‘Good with outstanding areas’ by Ofsted in a recent report.

Sir John Talbot’s School, which is part of the Marches Trust, was declared Good with two outstanding areas in the inspection, its first since receiving Good in 2017.

The school was praised for, in particular, leadership and management and also for personal development which ‘reflects the unwavering commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and holistic education that defines the ethos of the school “Achievement Through Caring”’.

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Headteacher Tim Stonall said he was delighted with the result and praised his staff and students for the work they have done to reach the achievement.

He said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to every member of our incredible community, from dedicated staff and enthusiastic students to supportive governors, caring families, and the invaluable contributions of the Marches Academy Trust.

“The support has been the cornerstone of our success, and we are immensely grateful for the collaborative spirit that defines our school.

“Together, we have created an environment that fosters learning, growth, and a sense of belonging."

A spokesman said that the “outstanding” leadership and management at Sir John Talbot's School has been recognised as a guiding beacon, steering the school towards success.

According to Ofsted, under the leadership of Mr Stonall, the school has built upon strong foundations to further create an environment conducive to learning and growth, setting a standard for educational schools across the region.

A spokesman added: “Inspectors noted a high-quality curriculum that enables students to know more and do more.

“Equally noteworthy is the school's commitment to personal development, a key aspect that underscores the dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals.

“This emphasis on personal growth ensures that students are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the skills and resilience needed to face the challenges of the future and the real world.

“A particular highlight of the achievements is the exceptional support provided to students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

“Regardless of their abilities, the commitment to inclusivity ensures that every student receives the necessary tools and encouragement to thrive.

“This approach is encapsulated in the vision of 'achievement through caring,' which has resulted in a significant positive impact, evident in the continuous growth and achievement of students over time.

“Addressing challenges head-on, Sir John Talbot's School acknowledges higher exclusion rates and is working diligently to support all children.

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“A resolute stance against poor behaviour is evident, with exclusion rates beginning to decline as a result of proactive measures to support students when needed.”

Mr Stonall added: “Sir John Talbot's School remains committed to its journey towards excellence, continuously striving to provide a holistic and enriching educational experience for all.

“The school looks forward to building on this success and maintaining its position as an outstanding place for education in the community.”