A WORKINGTON sixth form believes a recent Ofsted judgement should give families further confidence as students sit their first full exams since the pandemic began.

Workington Academy’s Sixth Form, which makes up the joint West Coast Sixth Form (WCSF) with the Whitehaven Academy, was recently rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, whose inspectors praised staff for ensuring students are ‘well prepared’ for work or further study.

March’s inspection success was a further boost for Workington Academy, which was also rated Good, and has seen pupil numbers shoot up in recent years.

Mark Bedford, Workington Academy’s Head of School and Head of West Coast Sixth Form, said: “It should be reassuring for families and students that, even though learning routines have not been ‘normal’ through the disruption of Covid, we have still been recognised as a Good Sixth Form provider.

“We have worked hard with the students over the last two years to get them into the best possible position for the important examinations they are now sitting.

"They deserve every success for all the hard work and commitment they have put in.”

On the academy’s sixth form, inspectors noted: “The curriculum in the sixth form is highly effective. Teachers present subject matter in a clear and logical way. Students in the sixth form are well prepared for university, employment or apprenticeships.”

The report also highlighted that in the years prior to sixth form, Workington pupils were building up their knowledge.

It said: “Without exception, pupils, and students in the sixth form, are immensely proud of their school. They are eager to share with visitors all that the school has to offer.”

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The report said students also spoke passionately about the support they receive from staff in relation to their mental health and well-being.

Mr Bedford said staff take pride in the ongoing achievements of students and are keen for them to aim high when it comes to launching careers, choosing universities, colleges or apprenticeships.

Recent destinations following two years of study at WCSF include prestigious universities such as Oxford, Durham, Newcastle, Lancaster, Leeds, Manchester and Warwick.

Students have also secured high-calibre degree apprenticeships, including with Sellafield and BAE Systems.

Sixth form exams started in mid-May and will continue until late June. And on July 4, the whole process kicks off again with an induction week for students to make a start on their academic choices for Year 12.

Mr Bedford emphasised it wasn’t too late for students who wanted to join WCSF in 2022 and select from more than 30 A Level and vocational qualifications.

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