An “Outstanding School” OfSTED's most recent judgement

I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit Alder Grange Community and Technology School in Rawtenstall. This school has recently been awarded outstanding status by OfSTED and after spending a couple of hours in the School you can see why.

I was met by the Headteacher Ian Hulland who spent some time discussing the implementation of the Every Child Matters Agenda in Rossendale and specifically in Alder Grange. This system of learning takes an holistic approach to every child ensuring academic, personal and physical wellbeing. This scheme has been embraced by alder Grange and has contributed to its achieving an Outstanding OfSTED report.

After our meeting Mr Hulland gave me a tour of the School. I was particularly impressed by the new sports facility which had been opened by Ryan Giggs days before my visit. The School now has a fantastic gym, indoor courts and superb changing facilities. These facilities are open to the community in the evening and at weekends and help the School to remain at the heart of the community. Additionally, the pupils of Alder Grange are lucky enough to have several teachers who have represented the country in various sports on the teaching team.

It is very rare that I meet someone I would describe as inspirational in either my business or political life however Ian Hulland is one such person. Ian is a passionate educationalist and a fantastic Headteacher. I hope that over the months and years to come I will have the opportunity to work with Ian and play my part in improving the education available to every child in the Valley.