A REDDITCH school has been recognised as the most improved state-funded mainstream secondary school in England.
In one year, Ridgeway Secondary School overall Progress 8 improved by 1.05 points and moved 2,266 places in the Department for Education (DfE) school performance tables.
In 2023, the school, part of the Shires Multi Academy Trust (MAT), held a Progress 8 score of -0.62, ranking 2,877th out of 3,372 secondary schools in the country – placing it in the bottom 15 per cent of schools nationally.
The new score is +0.43 placing it 611th in the country within the top 18 per cent of schools nationwide.
Progress 8 is the key measure used to assess the academic progress of students from the end of primary school to the completion of their GCSEs.
In October 2021, Ridgeway Secondary School was judged as Inadequate by Ofsted. In 2022, Ridgeway joined the Shires Multi Academy Trust and since then, headteacher Matt Ball and his team have worked tirelessly to completely rebuild, re-structure and transform the school.
Mr Ball said the transformation was driven by a commitment to the highest standards and a belief that every child can succeed.
He said: “This transformation is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and passion of everyone involved – our staff, students, parents, and community.
“To rise from the bottom 15 per cent t of schools to the top 18 per cent in just one year reflects the culture of excellence and high expectations we’ve established at Ridgeway.
“The improvements for boys, in the EBacc and for disadvantaged students show that we are making a real difference in key areas, preparing all students for success in all aspects of their lives.”
Deputy headteacher Jack Worton said: “Our school’s journey has been one of transformation and commitment.
“This progress is not just a testament to the hard work of our staff and students, but also to the unwavering support of our families and local community.
“Together, we have created a culture of aspiration and excellence that continues to inspire our young learners to reach their full potential.
“We believe this milestone deserves recognition, not just for Ridgeway Secondary School, but for what it represents: the power of collective effort and the impact of fostering a supportive and ambitious school culture.
