LEADERS at Winsford Academy have a ‘plan of action’ underway to address improvements identified by Ofsted and ensure 'the highest possible quality of education and care'.

The Winsford-based high school has been rated ‘Requires Improvement’ in all areas after its latest Ofsted inspection, which was carried out in November last year, with the report being published on Tuesday.

But leaders stress the school, which was graded 'Good' in its previous inspection in 2016, is striving to progress and improve.

Some of the areas for improvement included teachers checking pupils’ prior learning is secure before introducing new content, pupil absence levels and pupil behaviour.

The report reads: “While many pupils behave well, a considerable minority do not.

“This is particularly the case on corridors and during social times.”

But the report did note: “Standards of behaviour are improving because leaders have established clear expectations for pupils’ conduct.”

Winsford Academy’s new headteacher Laura Halsall took over the role in September and The Fallibroome Trust – which the high school is part of – said the school is ‘moving forward’ under her leadership.

The report also mentioned positives to the school, with inspectors noting that pupils ‘settle quickly’.

“Many pupils model the school’s value of showing kindness,” the report continues.

“Pupils recognise and appreciate the support that staff provide for their learning and well-being.

“Staff build supportive relationships with pupils.

“This helps most pupils to feel safe in school.

“Leaders deal with bullying effectively.”

Headteacher Laura Halsall said: “School improvement is a team effort.

“We need all pupils, staff, parents and the wider community to continue to work together to ensure that we can provide the highest possible quality of education and care for our learners.

“We look forward to welcoming inspectors back to Winsford in the future, to see how we have progressed and improved since their last visit.”

The school is part of The Fallibroome Trust – a group of ten primary and secondary schools in Cheshire East and West.

Jeremy Spencer, CEO, said: “I am exceptionally proud of the ways in which Winsford Academy is moving forward under the leadership of its new headteacher Ms Halsall and her team.

“Ofsted’s current inspection framework sets a very high bar for schools, which we welcome.

“The trust will continue to work with, and support, all stakeholders involved in providing the best possible outcomes for Winsford Academy.

“A detailed plan of action is already underway.”