‘No question’ over future of under-pressure school
Beechen Cliff School’s future is “not in question”, according to the headmaster. Andrew Davies has written to parents following news that the Bath school received a ‘termination warning notice’ from the Government earlier this month. Such notices are sent to schools that receive an “inadequate” Ofsted rating to warn them that they risk it does not make the required improvements within a given time frame. The school was judged “inadequate” by the education watchdog in a controversial report highlighting serious concerns about pupil safety. The school has disputed some of Ofsted’s conclusions and a group of parents and a former head teacher have come out in support of the school. The Department for Education has not disclosed what that time frame is for making the required improvements and Beechen Cliff School has not responded to a request by our website Bath Live for comment. In a statement issued on Monday, Mr Davies told parents: “The future of Beechen Cliff School is not in question and the governors, head and staff are focussed on implementing Ofsted’s recommendations ensuring Beechen Cliff is an excellent, safe and happy school for all its pupils.” Beechen Cliff School’s statement to parents and the community, issued on July 16 reads: “You may have read reports in the press over the weekend relating to the future of the school. “The press articles stem from a letter entitled ‘Termination Warning Notice’ that is sent by the Regional Schools Commissioner (RSC) to any school receiving an inadequate grading from Ofsted. “This letter is a ‘standard’ process letter and is focussed on the RSC and school’s commitment to tackling the issues raised in the inspection report. “The letter, as a matter of course includes the RSC right to withdraw funding but in Beechen Cliff’s case is firmly focussed on putting in place the right support to help drive the school’s improvement plan. “The school is already engaged with Midsomer Norton Multi Academy Trust which is providing invaluable support to the school. “The future of Beechen Cliff School is not in question and the governors, head and staff are focussed on implementing Ofsted’s recommendations ensuring Beechen Cliff is an excellent, safe and happy school for all its pupils.” The Department for Education has said it is taking the concerns raised in the report “very seriously”. A spokesman said: “The department is working to ensure there is rapid and sustained improvement at Beechen Cliff School, including by partnering the school with a strong multi-academy trust who will provide support.” Beechen Cliff broke up for the summer holidays on July 13. Pupils return on September 3.