27 April 2024 , 13:46
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A secondary school has been stripped of its "good" Ofsted rating after pupils were found to use 'derogatory and homophobic' language.
The downgrade in the new Ofsted report comes less than a year after two students were suspended for performing Nazi salutes and using racist slurs. Saddleworth School in Diggle, Oldham received a 'requires improvement' rating following an inspection in January.
Headteacher Mike Anderson admitted the new rating was "disappointing for everyone", but said he had "absolute confidence" the school was heading "in the right direction", reports Manchester Evening News. He said discriminatory behaviour at school was "never acceptable" and that everyone takes intolerance of others "extremely seriously".
According to the new Ofsted report, pupils told inspectors that "instances of derogatory language and homophobic comments were not identified by the school consistently well". Lead inspector Eleanor Overland wrote that the school could do more to "promote diversity", adding: "Some pupils do not fully grasp the negative impact that the use of derogatory language can have on others."
In June last year, several pupils were caught making monkey noises and other racist slurs at black, Asian and mixed heritage children. There were also reports of anti-Semitic language being used towards a teacher and children performing Nazi salutes, disguised as raising a hand to answer a question.
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An investigation by the school uncovered a Snapchat group called 'The Nazi Party', where members shared material suggesting an interest in far-right politics. Parents were told at least two of the pupils were asked to apologise, were suspended and isolated from their classrooms. At the time, Mr Anderson said: "Discrimination and prejudice have no place at Saddleworth School and any behaviour which falls short of our expectations will be dealt with very seriously."
The school has now put in place a personal development plan which 'promotes tolerance, celebrates diversity and explains modern British values'. The school is also working towards the White Ribbon Award, which educates kids on the harmful effects of sexism and violence towards girls and women, and the Leeds Beckett Anti-Racist Award.
Mr Anderson added: "As a school, while we have a considerable amount of work to do, we are on the right path. I am grateful for the huge improvements we have already made - and will continue to make - to ensure our school becomes the excellent environment for learning that our children deserve."
In the report it was noted progress was being made and said the school was "aspirational" for all pupils, including for pupils with special educational needs. It praised the 'strong subject knowledge' of teachers; the school's focus on reading abilities; and the way staff deal with children being absent.
Attendance at the school has improved significantly, and headteacher Mr Anderson vowed to 'double efforts' to support children persistently absent. The school received an overall grade of 'requires improvement', as well as in the quality of education, behaviour and attitude, personal development. and leadership categories.