Ofsted Highlights Ongoing Attendance, Behavior, and Achievement Issues at South London School
Ofsted recently completed an inspection of Welling School in Bexley and identified significant issues related to attendance, behavior, and achievement. The findings of the report, released following a visit in February, highlighted areas where improvements are urgently needed.
Key Findings from Ofsted Report
- Overall pupil achievement consistently falls below national averages.
- GCSE results show that only 26.7% of students at Welling School achieved grade 5 or above in English and Maths in the 2024/25 academic year, compared to a national average of 45.4%.
- Inconsistencies were noted in student performance, especially between Years 7 and 9.
Attendance and Behavior Challenges
Welling School also reported attendance rates lower than the national average, although there is a positive trend in improvements. The school is actively analyzing attendance data to enhance student participation. Despite some improvements, Ofsted noted that behavioral support for students, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), can be ineffective. However, many students demonstrated positive attitudes and good behavior in class.
Support for SEND Students
The report indicated that while the school offers various support methods for SEND students, the effectiveness of these measures can vary. Some pupils face challenges in engaging with their learning due to inconsistent support.
Leadership and School Improvement
Leadership at Welling School has been critiqued for not adequately addressing the standards required across the institution. However, inspectors acknowledged that the leadership team understands the community’s needs and is committed to enhancing the school environment.
Positive Aspects of the School
- Pupils generally report feeling safe and supported.
- Sixth-form education is recognized for its effectiveness, with achievement levels closer to national norms.
- There is a diverse personal development program and an extensive range of extracurricular activities.
Headteacher Brian Griffen expressed satisfaction that Ofsted recognized the school’s strengths while also emphasizing areas that need attention. He noted the school is focused on improving attendance and achievement, which are central to their improvement strategies.
Griffen stated, “We are optimistic about continuing to enhance our educational environment and look forward to the next inspection.”
