A Carlisle school is celebrating after receiving a good grade from the education watchdog.
Trinity School was visited by Ofsted inspectors in November and their report was published today.
It was graded good in all categories and said the school had a strong sense of community, effective leadership, and commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students.
A previous inspection in 2022 said it required improvement overall. Ofsted no longer makes an overall effectiveness judgement in inspections.
The latest inspection praised the school for its warm and inclusive atmosphere, with students feeling safe, happy, and well supported.
The report also commended the school’s rising expectations for student achievement and behaviour, with most students, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, achieving well across a range of subjects.
The report said: “The school has undergone a significant period of change and development since the previous inspection. For example, considerable improvements have been made to the quality of education that pupils receive.
“These changes mean that most pupils are now learning well. They are achieving better than the 2023 published outcomes suggest. The school has taken effective action to develop an ambitious curriculum.”
Headteacher David Samson said: “We are thrilled with the positive outcome of the Ofsted inspection. It’s a true reflection of the hard work, commitment, and passion of our entire school community.
“Our students consistently inspire us with their enthusiasm for learning, and it’s wonderful to see their efforts recognised.”
The inspection report also noted the significant improvements in the quality of education, especially in Key Stage 4, where more students are achieving qualifications across the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. The school’s broad and inclusive curriculum, particularly in the sixth form, was also highlighted as a key strength.
Mr Samson added: “We have worked hard over the past few years to enhance the curriculum and improve teaching, and it’s heartening to see that reflected in the report. While we are pleased with the overall outcome, we are committed to continuing to develop the school further.”
The report also acknowledged the purposeful environment both in lessons and during social times.
Mr. Samson said: “Our staff are a credit to the school. Their dedication, expertise, and care for our students make Trinity a special place. I want to thank them for their tireless work and for making Trinity School a welcoming and nurturing environment for all.”
However, inspectors said: “A small number of other aspects of the personal, social, health and economic curriculum, including fundamental British values, are not designed or taught in a coherent, sequenced way. This leaves some pupils not as prepared as they could be for life in modern Britain.
“In a small number of subjects, the content and sequencing of knowledge in Key Stage 3 is not coherent enough. This hinders pupils from building a deep and secure body of knowledge in these subjects.”
Mr Samson said: “The leadership team at Trinity School is already implementing the recommendations from the inspection to build on the school’s strengths and ensure continued improvement in the future.”
