Case studies

16 June 2023

Parkside Community College rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted

School secures ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating once again, having last achieved this rating in 2017.

Inspectors’ report praises staff determination to ensure students can “be at their very best in everything they do”

Inspectors also highlight strength of extracurricular programme with opportunities for students to “socialise, widen their cultural knowledge and hone important skills” 

Parkside Community College has once again been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, following its inspection in April. The school was last judged to be ‘Outstanding’ in 2017.

In their report, inspectors highlighted the strength and “ambition” of the academic curriculum and noted that students perform exceptionally well in national examinations”. Importantly, staff across the school are praised for ensuring students can “be at their very best in everything they do”.

Teachers have “strong subject knowledge”, and are attuned to how well students are learning, sensitively guiding them in lessons to strengthen their understanding. This attention and support extends to all students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Teachers are said to be happy in their workplace and benefit from the support of both senior leaders at the school and United Learning, of which Parkside is a part.

Alongside emphasising the excellent quality of teaching and learning, the inspectors’ report also praised students’ behaviour and attitudes. They described behaviour as “exemplary” and commented that students are “curious, eager to learn and interact maturely with each other in class and around school”. In particular, Sixth Formers are commended for being "highly positive role models" and for helping to mentor younger pupils.

Inspectors further praised the school for the exciting extracurricular programme and other enrichment opportunities on offer. They noted that “pupils enjoy a multitude of clubs”, helping them to “socialise, widen their cultural knowledge and hone important skills”. These run alongside a host of opportunities for students to become actively engaged within their school and wider community. For example, the report highlights a social action group which campaigns to make the school more environmentally friendly.

Craig Morrison, Executive Principal at Parkside Community College, said:

“I am thrilled that Parkside Community College continues to be an ‘Outstanding’ school. The inspectors’ report reflects what an aspirational, inclusive and friendly school community we have built and I would like to thank everyone – including staff, students and their families – for their ongoing role in ensuring the school’s success. I am sure that Parkside will continue to flourish in the months and years to come.”

Dame Sally Coates, Director of Secondary Academies at United Learning, said:

The report is a glowing testimony of the exceptional teaching and unwavering support staff across the school provide to students at Parkside. It is clear that there is a very strong working relationship between governors, leaders and staff, which places the school in an excellent position for the future. Thank you to all across the school community for your ongoing efforts and dedication to ensuring each and every young person at Parkside is able to succeed, both in their learning and beyond.”

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