Mixed picture for Maelor School as inspectors release findings

A Wrexham secondary school has received a mixed review after inspectors released their findings.

The Maelor School in Penley was visited by officials from Estyn in February. During their observations, they concluded that attitudes to learning and the care and support offered to pupils were good.

However, they found that the quality of teaching and leadership at the school were in need of improvement.

The national inspection body has also highlighted concerns surrounding health and safety and performance at GCSE level.

In a report, officials said: “The Maelor School’s inclusive and supportive ethos has a beneficial impact on pupils’ wellbeing and personal development.

“Most pupils are well behaved and are courteous and respectful towards their peers, staff and visitors.

“Most teachers have purposeful and respectful working relationships with pupils, and teaching in many lessons is effective in ensuring that many pupils make suitable progress in their knowledge, understanding and skills.

“However, many teachers’ questioning does not probe pupils’ understanding or challenge them to develop their verbal skills well enough, and in a minority of lessons, learning activities do not always challenge pupils sufficiently to achieve their full potential.”

They added: “The headteacher provides assured and reflective leadership, and together with the senior leadership team, he fosters a supportive and caring ethos that creates an orderly and purposeful learning environment.

“However, leadership at all levels has not had enough impact on improving the quality and consistency of teaching and in raising standards.”

The Maelor School currently has 809 pupils, including 146 in the sixth form.

According to the report, the school’s performance at key stage four has dipped in recent years. During 2018, pupils’ achievements were said to be below that seen in similar schools in many areas.

Inspectors said they also flagged up an unspecified health and safety risk during their time at the school.

A list of four recommendations has now been drawn up for leaders to address, and will be required to draw up an action plan in order for Estyn to review its progress.

By Liam Randall – BBC Local Democracy Reporter (more here on the LDR scheme).