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Published: 02 July, 2010
by RÓISÍN GADELRAB

INSPECTORS have given newly-modernised Highbury Grove School the highest possible praise with an “outstanding” rating.

Pupils and staff impressed inspectors by their resilience in the face of disruption from building work – the result of a £29million redevelopment, part of the former Labour government’s Building Schools for the Future project.

Inspectors who visited in May – just three months after pupils moved into their new building – found Highbury Grove to be “an outstandingly effective school”.

They said in their report: “Attainment has risen rapidly in recent years from a low starting point to close to the national average. This is particularly remarkable as students’ attainment on entry has remained well below average. 

“The school is an extremely caring, cohesive community in which students are known very well as individuals.” Students respond positively to high expectations, the report added, praising teachers for their excellent work.

It said there has been decline in the number of exclusions, a rise in the level of attendance and improved standards of behaviour as a result of the “outstanding provision to support the needs of individual students”.

Headteacher Truda White’s leadership was said to be “exceptional”.

Inspectors said: “The commitment to continuous improvement is highlighted by the fact that recent significant improvements in students’ achievement have taken place while the school has undergone a full rebuilding programme on the same site.”

Ms White said of the inspectors’ report: “This is a great achievement. The judgement reflects the hard work and commitment of all students, staff and governors. 

“We are particularly pleased, having recently moved into our fantastic new school.”

Islington Council’s schools chief Labour councillor Richard Watts said: “Highbury Grove really is an outstanding school. I am delighted for the staff, pupils and parents who have all worked so hard to make the school so successful.”