Head's Welcome
I am delighted to report that the school is at an exciting stage in its development with our recent Ofsted report (January 2012) recognising the rapid progress the school is making. The Inspector's report, carried out under the new, far more rigorous guidelines, confirms that the "quality of teaching is good and often outstanding" and "behaviour is good both in lessons and around the school."
The inspectors recognised that we are passionate to go from strength to strength describing Castle High as "an improving school which strives to do even better". This year we saw a record number of students, 86%, with 5 or more A*-C grade passes and a significant increase in the number of students continuing into further education, particularly to study A levels. Yet again, for the third year running this coming summer, we are expecting to improve upon these best ever exam results. We use a simple set of rules 'no ifs, no buts and no excuses' to ensure this happens.
Good quality teaching is the key to school improvement. We are continuing to provide the highest standard of innovative teaching and learning opportunities where possible to ensure all students reach their potential. This was recognised by Ofsted who described Castle High as "an impressive school where teaching is good and the school well led"
Our Student Voice team is currently busy, researching proposals to improve further the site with plans for wireless technology throughout the school and the updating of the dining area just to mention two. They are hard to keep up with.
Castle High is an exciting and stimulating school in which to teach, visit, be a student or even with which to work. We have many partners helping us achieve our aims. Of course we want to improve further, and are always seeking ways of improving the experience students receive and can engage in, because we are determined to become a centre of excellence.
As the Head Teacher I am personally very proud of the endless student opportunities we continue to create and also very excited about the future of the school. I have the support of parents, students and, in particular, a fantastic team of dedicated staff that are working hard to make this school successful and rewarding in order to reach our aim of being outstanding. We make a real difference to young people and invest in everyone associated with the school and the local community; it's a great place to be!
Please come and see what exciting and rewarding work we are doing here. Visits to our school are always welcome. Students and staff look forward to meeting you in the near future.
Michelle King
Headteacher