AS a new Church of England school, in January Wolverley had its first inspection by the Church of England’s National Society Statutory Inspection Team – and was delighted to receive a glowing report!

The inspectors commented on the varied and stimulating enrichment curriculum provided for all students and singled out for praise the “good personal care and support for students, all of which contribute to the overall welcoming atmosphere and focused learning environment which is immediately apparent on entering the school.”Many students – and some parents – had the opportunity to meet with the Team and the Inspectors were struck by the students’ appreciation of the school’s sensitive and inclusive approach to worship. One student commented: “It’s all presented in a way that doesn’t force you to believe – it’s good to be able to make up your own mind” . Other students remarked on the strong sense of “belonging” to the school engendered by the “house” system and the weekly acts of collective and inclusive worship when the focus is on responsibility, tolerance and acceptance of others, as well as celebrating individual’s achievements. The inspectors were firmly of the opinion that the school’s policy of seeking students’ views on aspects of school life helped to foster and sustain their feeling of belonging.

Whilst headteacher, Richard North, is obviously delighted with the report, he insists that Wolverley is not going to rest on its laurels.

He said: “We have come a long way in establishing a successful school rooted in Christian values. But there are still things to do – for example, we are encouraging the students to plan and lead worship themselves, giving them more of a say in the topics and themes addressed. Plus, we are planning to create a “quiet room” to provide a space where students can go for a period of quiet reflection: an oasis of calm in the hurly-burly of school life.”

Given the commitment of the staff and the enthusiasm of the students, Wolverley C of E School is certainly at the forefront of Worcestershire schools aiming to provide its students with the ethical and moral grounding that is so important for life in the 21st century.