A SCHOOL has retained its promising reputation with education watchdogs thanks to its strong leadership and an inclusive culture.

The Bulmershe School in Woodley was rated 'good' in all areas by Ofsted following an inspection in November.

Inspectors reserved high praise for the influence of head teacher Amanda Woodfin, who has made a big impression since taking up the role in July.

The school has bolstered its good name thanks to the success of the Bulmershe Ensemble on the BBC Two series 'The Choir'.

Bulmershe received the Judges Special Award at the 2017 Reading Cultural Awards.

The inspection report reads: "The head teacher is passionate about wanting the very best outcomes for all pupils. A welcoming and inclusive culture, with a shared drive for continual improvement, is evident from the top down.

"Teaching in the sixth form is consistently good. Lessons proceed with pace and purpose and students are set ambitious targets. Teachers demonstrate their strong subject and assessment knowledge to design learning activities that support students’ understanding to grow.

Reading Chronicle:

"Strong leadership and planning ensure the additional funding for pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities is used well. These pupils are supported to make accelerated progress across the curriculum.

"Teaching is very effective. Typically, pupils enter the school with low starting points and make strong progress in English, mathematics, science and the humanities. Progress in other subject areas is improving rapidly.

"Pupils start the school in Year 7 with attainment that is below the national average. Historically, pupils have made strong progress from these starting points to attain GCSE outcomes broadly in line with national averages.

"However, in 2016, although Year 11 pupils’ progress was average overall, boys did not achieve as highly as girls. In addition, disadvantaged pupils and the most able pupils made significantly slower progress than their peers. 

"The behaviour of pupils is good. There is a calm and purposeful atmosphere around the school. Pupils are courteous and helpful, and they welcome visitors and new pupils to their school. They are smart and wear their uniform with pride."

The school was last visisted three years ago and caters for more than 1,000 children and young people, with a sixth form programme.