Good marks for controversy-hit school

THE school at the centre of a storm over its future location has been endorsed as “good” by Ofsted inspectors.

Saddleworth School — which is to move to Diggle, despite opposition — is celebrating following the verdict of an inspection team that visited the Uppermill secondary last month.

The inspectors attended dozens of lessons, met pupils, staff and governors and looked carefully at pupils’ books, scrutinising the quality of marking and feedback.

Pupils join Saddleworth from primary school with attainment well above average, and they make good progress in the majority of subjects.

Good teaching has led to high attainment, particularly in English and maths.

Head teacher Matthew Milburn and senior staff are praised for their “sharp focus on improvement” and “clear vision” for how the school should develop.

Mr Milburn said: “There is still plenty for us to work on and improve. The judgment is a real vote of confidence in the school.”