Staff and students at Cheadle Hulme High School (CHHS) are celebrating after a recent visit from Ofsted resulted in the school being graded as ‘Outstanding’ in every judgement area – a result that mirrored the outcome from the last inspection in 2014.
This incredible achievement followed a two-day inspection in early May, where every aspect of life at the school was explored, reviewed and evaluated.
The inspectors concluded that CHHS is a place where “pupils thrive” as a result of “a rigorous academic education that propels their learning way beyond the classroom”.
Dave Brown, CHHS’ Headteacher, said: “This outcome is testament to the professionalism and ambition of our entire school community. Our staff work tirelessly to create an environment where every student can flourish, and our students respond with pride, commitment and drive.
“To secure an Outstanding grading is tough, but to do it consistently over a ten-year period is even more challenging. It has been a decade of the highest of standards.”
Inspectors found that “students, including those who are disadvantaged, achieve exceptionally well,” and described behaviour and attitudes as “excellent,” with “exceedingly happy’ students wholeheartedly committed to their studies”.
Personal development opportunities for students were highlighted as a particular strength of the school, such as the “meticulously constructed careers programme”, “a plethora of clubs” and “a focus on teaching qualities, attitudes and habits” such as social intelligence and empathy.
In a report packed with praise, some standout comments included:
• The school’s rich and ambitious curriculum equips pupils with the knowledge they need to succeed. The curriculum is expertly delivered.
• The school has excellent processes in place to identify pupils’ additional needs. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are expertly supported to excel. They participate fully in school life.
• Across the curriculum, reading is front and centre and skilfully woven through each subject. A love of reading is firmly embedded.
• The school sets extremely high standards for pupils’ behaviour… Pupils are respectful and polite.
• The school equips sixth-form students exceedingly well for life in modern Britain. Students achieve exceptionally well, and most go on to aspirational destinations.
• The school is highly focused on creating well-rounded individuals. Individuality is highly celebrated.
• The collaboration, trust and mutual respect between the school and the trust are palpable. Across the school, at all levels, leadership is a strength.
This outcome is particularly significant as it comes ahead of the retirement of Linda Magrath OBE, CEO of the Laurus Trust, who will step down in the summer of 2026 after a remarkable career in education. In 2016, she founded The Laurus Trust, which now oversees a family of schools across Greater Manchester – all of which have been recognised for delivering exceptional education and raising aspirations for young people across the region.
Linda Magrath OBE said: “I am incredibly proud of Cheadle Hulme High School’s achievements. To be recognised once again as Outstanding is a tribute to the incredible staff, students and families who make Cheadle Hulme High School such a special place.
“I would like to thank Dave Brown, his senior leadership team and all our staff for their vision, dedication and hard work in continuing to build on the school’s legacy.”
