Press release from Heathlands School:
“Heathlands School Celebrates double Outstanding Ofsted grading!
Pupils, staff, parents and governors from Heathlands School in St. Albans are celebrating after being graded ‘Outstanding’ in its recent whole school Ofsted report and ‘Outstanding’ in its recent residential inspection.
The inspectors recognised the school has continued to be an outstanding school and residential provision for Deaf children. Heathlands is now the largest Deaf school within the UK offering specialist education via a Total Communication approach with all pupils’ first language being sign language.
Catering for over 140 pupils from ages 3-16, Heathlands had an in-depth school inspection in February 2023. The school inspection report commented that since the last inspection, leaders have continued to have ambition for all and keep to their school motto of ‘becoming the best they can be’.
The school inspection report said,
‘All pupils thrive in Heathlands School’s inclusive, nurturing climate of high expectations… Pupils make great strides in their use of language and vocabulary, as well as in reading and writing.’
The Ofsted inspectors were particularly impressed by the schools’ strong safeguarding culture, its personalised programs of learning which are tailored to match individual needs and the exemplary behaviour and strong sense of pride in the school demonstrated by all. The report also recognised the school for its strong English, mathematics and science teaching and its’ high-quality lessons.
Shortly following the school inspection, in March 2023 the residential provision then received an Ofsted inspection which also remained Outstanding. Inspectors said,
‘Children make unquestionable progress because of the individualised and high quality support they receive from the residential staff. The exceptional quality of the residential experience reflects the same high standards as their education’. The report went on to say,
‘Safeguarding is a high priority at the school and residential provision. Comprehensive safeguarding training ensures that exceptional safeguarding practices are embedded throughout the school.’
Co-Headteachers, Lesley Reeves Costi and Sarah Shields said:
“We are thrilled with both of Heathlands’ latest Ofsted reports and are really pleased that the comments of the inspectors recognise the commitment and dedication as well as the expertise of all the staff working hard to ensure best outcomes for every pupil at Heathlands.
We would like to thank all the pupils, parents, staff and governors for their continued support and dedication to the school.
As acknowledged in the reports, we have continued to develop an aspirational and ambitious culture at Heathlands and will continue to strive to achieve high standards and performance for all students”.
The full Ofsted report can be read at www.reports.ofsted.gov.uk
To find out more about Heathlands School visit www.heathlands.herts.sch.uk“
