Pupils and teachers at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Language College are in celebratory mood after receiving the highest praise possible from Ofsted inspectors, who describe it as a school where 'achievement is outstanding' and pupils meet 'challenging targets and high expectations'. <br><br>The Kings' Cross based girls' school has improved from an already impressive 'excellent' rating at the last inspection. It has now been rated as 'outstanding'. <br><br>Inspectors observed that the broad and regularly reviewed curriculum on offer at the school ensures that work is varied and students are engaged. Staff have formed 'excellent' relationships with students and 'girls respond very well to the warmth and encouragement of their teachers.' Each student's individual needs are assessed, including the most vulnerable and 'all learners are included.'<br><br>Students benefit from close links with art organisations and partnerships with local businesses, giving them the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial and financial skills. A wide range of extra-curricular clubs and activities are also organised and clinics exist on the school site offering advice on a range of topics, both personal and educational. Inspectors felt that all of these factors demonstrated 'the school's proactive approach to supporting learners' personal development and well-being.'<br><br>Much of the progress made at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson was linked in the report to headteacher Jo Dibb's 'remarkable leadership over the last three years.' The head and her team have worked hard on tackling attendance at the school - which has significantly improved – and they offer students 'exceptional care, guidance and support.' Jo Dibb said: <br><br>"We're delighted that the real strengths of the school have been recognised, the fact that all girls from the most vulnerable to the most able make outstanding progress and achieve so highly.<br><br>This wouldn't happen without girls who are committed to their learning, excellent staff and the support of families. The report quoted one of our fundamental beliefs: that the future of our city depends on schools like Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, because if young people from different backgrounds don't work together, learn together and play together in school, they will never do so in the future."<br><br>Over two-thirds of girls attending Elizabeth Garrett Anderson have English as a second language. An atmosphere of support at the school means that these students have been able to thrive and make excellent progress. Inspectors noted the school's 'outstanding ability to foster mutual understanding and respect for all cultures.' The school's specialist language status also has a positive impact on pupils. All of the girls study at least one language at GCSE level and the focus on linguistics contributes to 'the school's friendly, international atmosphere in which girls flourish.' <br><br>Councillor Ursula Woolley, Executive Member for Children and Young People said: "This is more excellent news about how Islington secondary schools are being completely turned around. Congratulations to all the staff, pupils, governors and parents whose hard work has been reflected in this Ofsted report. The feedback comes on the back of the school's much-improved exam results this summer and it's very well deserved."<br><br>Students at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson are expected to display good behaviour both in lessons and around the school building. Inspectors found they lived up to these expectations, describing behaviour as 'exemplary'. This in turn means that the environment in lessons is one where 'the vast majority of girls enjoy learning and are keen to learn more.'<br><br>In a letter to students, the Ofsted inspector praised them for their 'openness and friendliness…politeness and confidence'. The report concludes that Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Language College is 'an outstanding school in which each and every pupil really does matter…with achievement and care at its heart.'<br><br>Elizabeth Garrett Anderson is one of eight secondaries in the borough to benefit from Islington's £140million Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme. During the next five years the schools will be rebuilt, remodelled and refurbished with new technology to transform the way children learn. <br><br>Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Language College will be 90% rebuilt over two years starting in January 2010. Islington Council is currently discussing detailed proposals with the school, with preliminary designs being released in January next year. <br><br>ENDS<br><br>For more information please call Islington Council press office on 020 7527 2307
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009