School slammed by Ofsted over ‘homophobic and racist bullying’
AN Oldham high school has been slated by Ofsted after inspectors found homophobic and racist bullying was making pupils feel unsafe – and that ‘British values’ were not being taught properly.
Royton and Crompton School was put in special measures after being rated ‘inadequate’ in every category by the education watchdog.
In a damning report inspectors said ‘British values’ – and social, moral, spiritual and cultural education’ – were not being promoted well enough by teachers.
Ofsted chiefs also said ‘too many pupils had a disregard for mutual respect and tolerance.’
Bullying was said to have been a serious issue, with some pupils ‘isolated’ by other students.
Inspectors said ‘underachievement is endemic’ at the Blackshaw Lane secondary – and that standards had fallen since previous inspections. School leaders have now been told to take urgent action.
New headteacher Neil Hutchinson said he ‘fully accepted’ and ‘did not shy away’ from the report’s findings.
Mr Hutchinson, who took over at the school last year, added: “Making sure our pupils get the best education and turning round the school’s fortunes are the priorities for everyone associated with Royton and Crompton.
“I can assure parents, pupils and the wider community that we are already taking steps to make rapid improvements across the board, while addressing the concerns and issues raised by inspectors.
“The report raises allegations of bullying and concerns over the safety of pupils. We have taken that extremely seriously and we will respond to all reports and investigate thoroughly.
“British values are taught throughout the curriculum in most schools.
“The new curriculum to be introduced in September 2017 addresses this very important area and will ensure that Royton and Crompton is fully compliant and can be seen to educate children in the British values that are fundamental to our school’s ethos.”
The school has arranged a meeting with parents tomorrow to discuss Ofsted’s findings.
Inspectors visited the site, home to 1,160 pupils, in May. The school was rated as ‘requires improvement’ following a previous inspection in 2015.
Ofsted bosses said too many students make unsatisfactory progress in a number of subjects; funds to support disadvantaged children are not used effectively; children with special needs and disabilities are not properly supported; and pupils’ attitudes to learning are ‘poor.’ Students are said to have underachieved at the school for ‘far too long,’ while the progress of disadvantaged pupils is ‘woefully weak,’ the report added.
Attendance is also below the national average.
Inspectors did note new headteacher Mr Hutchinson and an interim executive board were aware of what needs to be done.