Mary Hare is outstanding says Ofsted

The school, for profoundly and severely deaf children, received the rating in all four school assessment categories: achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils and leadership and management, while the overall effectiveness of the boarding experience was rated as good.
A team of five inspectors observed 23 lessons at the primary and secondary schools, held meetings with staff, governors and pupils and visited the school’s boarding houses to form their judgements.
They praised “strong and ambitious leadership” and a pursuit of excellence which allowed pupils to make outstanding progress, and described the behaviour of pupils as impeccable.
The report also found, by studying school documentation, that by the time pupils leave the school their attainment is significantly above other pupils with statements of special educational needs nationally, despite many of them joining the school with a lower than average attainment.
A questionnaire completed by parents also brought forward high praise for the school, with one parent writing: “This school gives my kids a chance to thrive that no other school can offer them.”
The report stated that, to further improve the school, technology should be modernised and the views of boarding pupils should be sought more regularly, particularly in relation to the use and promotion of sign language.
This was the final Ofsted inspection under current principal Tony Shaw (pictured), who is retiring from his role at the end of the summer term.
He said: “I’m very proud.
“I’m grateful to my governors, proud of my pupils, my parents and my staff and very pleased that I can retire with honour.”
Speaking of his retirement, he said: “I use the metaphor of a relay race.
“It’s not enough to run a good leg, but you have got to get the baton handed over at the right time otherwise the team is down.
“It’s the right time to hand the baton over.”
Current vice-principal Peter Gale will take over the role as principal in September.