COWLEY International College is delighted after being recognised as a ‘good’ school following an Ofsted inspection.

The school and sixth form college welcomed inspectors inside for a routine visit last November for the first time since 2016, with the findings published in January.

The Hard Lane-based school retained its 'Good' overall rating.

Representatives from education watchdog Ofsted reported that pupils described their school as a welcoming and friendly community where ‘people smile at one another’.”

They also noted that pupils behave well and that teachers are “ambitious for pupils”.

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Comments from inspectors included: “Leaders, including governors, ensure that pupils and students are at the centre of each decision that is made.”

They said: “Leaders are unflinching in their determination to improve pupils’ knowledge of vocabulary, their oral language skills, and their ability to read”.

It was added: “Pupils, including students in the sixth form, said that Cowley International College is a special place to learn.

"They said that they feel safe and happy in school.”

Inspectors noted that around the school and in lessons "pupils behave well".

They said "teachers are ambitious for pupils. Overall, pupils enjoy their learning, and they want to succeed. Most pupils achieve well, including students in the sixth form.”

It was also found “pupils benefit from a well-considered and sensitively planned personal development programme. “  and "leaders, including governors, ensure that pupils and students are at the centre of each decision that is made at Cowley International College. They are determined that everybody associated with the school is given the opportunity to succeed.”

The report also praised the sixth form college.

St Helens Star: Some sixth form students with the director of sixth form Deborah Faulkner and Mr Dunford, head of achievement. Some sixth form students with the director of sixth form Deborah Faulkner and Mr Dunford, head of achievement.

It said: “Staff expertise helps students to acquire a thorough insight and knowledge of the subjects that they study. As a result, students progress well.”

It was added: “Students are appreciative of the support and guidance that staff provide about future career pathways and study options" and "there is an extensive array of extra-curricular and enrichment activities on offer to pupils and students in the sixth form.”

Cameron Sheeran, executive principal at Cowley, said: “I am delighted with this Ofsted Inspection.

"Though only here for two days, the inspectors picked up on what makes Cowley unique: the happiness of students, their terrific attitude to learning and the dedication of staff, who place students at the heart of everything we do.”

Deborah Faulkner, director of Cowley Sixth Form College, added: "I am delighted that the sixth form has been recognised for its quality of education and extensive enrichment opportunities.

"The report highlights the support and guidance that sixth form students are given and this, in partnership with the opportunities available, leads to students feeling safe, happy and able to reach their full potential."