Ofsted inspectors have described Wilmslow High as "a school where pupils are inspired to be successful in all that they do".
Following their visit in January, inspectors said "the school's core value of 'be more' is evident in everything that happens. Pupils feel happy, safe and valued in this friendly school.
Inspectors added "The school is ambitious for what pupils can, and will, achieve academically. All pupils study a broad and balanced curriculum. Students in the sixth form pursue subjects that prepare them well for their next steps in education, employment and training. Whether pupils leave at 16 or continue their studies to 18, many pupils achieve well. Pupils want to succeed.
"The majority of pupils consistently meet the school's high expectations for behaviour. Pupils understand the clear routines that ensure they are ready to learn throughout the day. They are polite, well-mannered and welcome visitors warmly.
"The school provides many opportunities that spark pupils' interests and talents. Pupils relish the array of clubs on offer, including jazz band, hockey and debate club. Pupils learn to build leadership skills and help others. For example, the model United Nations group actively promotes pupils' understanding of global citizenship."
The report listed many things that the school does well, including:
- The school's curriculum is meticulously designed to incorporate the knowledge, skills and wider experiences that the pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), need to be successful.
- The school brings useful examples of research to the attention of teachers. This helps teachers to design and order learning so that pupils develop a secure understanding of key concepts.
- Reading is now prioritised across the school. The school's 'we're all reading' initiative has encouraged pupils to read more widely and for pleasure. More recently, the school has strengthened systems to identify those who are struggling with reading.
- The school has developed strong support for pupils with SEND. It accurately identifies the additional needs of pupils with SEND at the earliest opportunity.
- Pupils are proud to be recognised for their efforts through rewards and prizes.
The report also identified two areas where the school needed to do better:
- The school has not ensured that assessment is consistent and coherent across all subjects. This means that for some subjects, teachers are not clear about pupils' gaps in knowledge.
- Some pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and some with SEND, do not attend school regularly enough. This further exacerbates the gaps in these pupils' learning.
