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School head responds to critics

The head teacher of Castle Rushen High School has issued a written response to the findings of a recently published Special Inspection Report.

Maria Tomaszewska's statement gives little mention of what the report described as 'serious weaknesses' in the management of the school, instead saying that 'some areas for further development and improvement were identified'.

She says these include developing procedures so all staff and governors feel genuinely consulted.

Edward Oldham reports (audio file attached):

A major issue raised by teachers and governors when questioned for the Special Inspection Report was they didn't feel valued, nor were they treated with respect or dignity.

The SIR also said if Castle Rushen was to extend its current high level of achievement, the quality of leadership and management must be improved.

Mrs Tomaszewska's statement refers to the report's call for continued development of a comprehensive database of student achievement and attainment.

But there's no mention of an action plan, urgently recommended by the report, to address the problems highlighted in its findings.

She concludes by saying the school will continue to go from strength to strength.

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