Amesbury School in Hindhead has been praised in its OFSTED report for the improvements that have been made under its current headmaster.

The report states that although the school is traditionally know for putting children's welfare and happiness above academic success, under Nigel Taylor a commitment to pursue academic excellence has been added.

Praise is given to the school's sporting facitlities, tutor group system and the art department.  The report also recognises that Amesbury welcomes pupils with a broad range of ability, and achieves success across the full range.

Prior to the inspection, 130 families completed questionnaires seeking parents' views on the school.

The responses were overwhelmingly positive, according to the report, especially those relating to the academic aspects of school life.

Headmaster Mr Taylor said: "I am pleased the report recognises the significant progress made and that it praises the quality of teaching."

Mr Taylor and the school governors are also given credit for the fact that after his appointment in 1994, the school roll rose from 76 to 325, adding that they have given Amesbury a clear educational direction.

The report does make a number of recommendations for improvement, but Mr Taylor says that many of these are already being dealt with.

With no one given responsibility for coordinating and monitoring the curriculum, the report states that there has been a lack of consistency in pupils work.

"In response," he said, "the school is recruiting a director of studies in September, who will take responsiblity for curriculum development."

Although the school admits and retains some children with learning difficulties, it does not have the necessary resources and expertise to help them all.

Later this month the school also opens a new £600,000 academic building featuring a purpose built ICT department, library, a new science lab and new class rooms.

Haslemere Herald
15th February 2002