St. Malachy’s given outstanding report

St. Malachy’s given outstanding report

4 February 2015

THE pride, respect and enthusiasm of St. Malachy’s High School students have been highlighted in a recent inspection report.

The Education and Training Inspectorate commented on the resilience and maturity of the Castlewellan school’s students in the report, which was recently published following the November inspection.

Inspectors also highlighted the continuing improvement in GCSE and A-level attainment with the percentage of pupils attaining grades A*-C in at least five subjects, including English and mathematics, well above the Northern Ireland average for similar schools.

The 49 children who attend St. Malachy’s moderate learning difficulties unit, were found to be developing their independence and confidence and are well integrated into mainstream lessons and whole school activities.

“The pupils who require additional support with their learning attain very well at GCSE and A-level,” inspectors noted.

“The pupils in the Moderate Learning Difficulties unit attain very good accreditation at GCSE and in vocational subjects, and progress to an appropriate range of further education and work placements.”

In more than four fifths of lessons observed throughout the school, planning, teaching and assessment were found to be effective with lessons characterised by mutually respectful working relationships between the pupils and staff.

“The school has a caring, inclusive ethos and a strong commitment to the welfare of both pupils and staff,” inspectors said.

“A key strength of the outstanding pastoral provision is the planned, strategic links between pastoral and academic elements of school life.

“The pupils refer to the school as a ‘telling school’, indicating that they know who to turn to if they need support, and that they are confident that any concern will be heeded.”

Inspectors also praised St. Malachy’s High School’s leadership and management at all levels.

“The principal and senior leadership team set high expectations for the achievements of both staff and pupils within a culture of encouragement, challenge and support,” inspectors said.

“Positive working relationships and mutual respect are evident throughout the school.”

Mr. Michael McKibben, chairman of the Board of Governors, said he is very proud of what the school has achieved.

“I acknowledge the work and success of our students and I thank the parents and guardians for their commitment to and support for St. Malachy’s High School,” he said.

“I commend the principal and the senior management team for their excellent leadership of the school and I extend sincere thanks and praise to the teachers and support staff for all that they do in providing quality learning, caring and teaching for our young people. 

“This is indeed a school at the heart of the community providing excellence of educational opportunity.”