Ofsted and SIAMS
Ofsted
In January 2024 we received an ungraded (section 8) inspection. The inspectors found that Townsend continues to be a good school and will return in four years for a graded inspection.
We are very proud of our school and our aim is to provide a secure and happy environment where all our students can enjoy working and learning. Townsend is where all can develop their potential to the fullest extent, intellectually, spiritually, personally and socially in preparation for a successful and creative adult life.
Some quotes from the report:
“All are made to feel safe, welcomed and valued.”
“Most pupils are happy to be at school and make good friendships.”
“Classrooms are positive places in which to teach and learn.”
“The behaviour of the great majority of pupils is very good. They are polite and show respect for everyone.”
“Pupils benefit from knowledgeable teaching.”
“Pupils have the opportunity to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities.”
“They participate in musical productions, and benefit from having the St Albans Music School based on the school site.”
“Teachers have good subject knowledge. They present ideas and information clearly, including in the sixth form.”
“The behaviour of the great majority of pupils is impressive, particularly as they move around the school site.”
“Sixth-form students are excellent ambassadors for the school.”
“The school’s ethos of respecting everyone is clearly lived out in the way that staff and pupils behave.”
“People from all backgrounds, beliefs and lifestyles can be themselves and thrive at Townsend.”
January 2024 Ofsted Report found here
SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools)
Our last SIAMS inspection was in July 2016 which the school was graded Outstanding.
The report highlights the sustained Christian vision of the headteacher, leadership team and governors promotes the school’s mission to love, show compassion, nurture academic achievement and serve others. It also notes that Christian values are lived out by all members of the school community through the school mission statement ‘Achievement for All and Respect for All’ ensuring that pupils are able to flourish and are prepared for life in modern Britain.
We are particularly proud of the section which references how we listen to our students where is states that we have a strong commitment to pupil voice and leadership, particularly the RE Ambassador scheme, means that students inspire one another in acts of Christian service and mission.
Some quotes from the report:
“The school lives out its mission of ‘Achievement for All and Respect for All’ through its Christian values of love, compassion, tolerance and service. Pupils are empowered to achieve and give their best as children of God.”
“Collective worship has an integral place in the life of the school. It is exceptionally well led by a committed and enthusiastic teacher who provides outstanding support for her colleagues.”
“Collective worship makes an excellent contribution to spiritual, moral, social and cultural development particularly through the many engaging activities and discussions pupils take part in during form time worship.”
“The emphasis on inclusiveness is further promoted through a strong anti-bullying programme, and teachers talk about the impact of this in terms of appropriate use of language. Growth Mindset principles are promoting pupils’ self-esteem and raising aspirations. This means that pupils are well equipped to live life in a diverse society.”