Dear Parents and Carers,
I am delighted to share with you the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection for our QEStudio provision and to enclose a copy of the inspection report.
As many of you know, Queen Elizabeth Studio School has been on a significant journey over recent years. We have worked tirelessly to create an educational experience that combines high-quality academic learning with technical education, employer engagement and meaningful preparation for the world beyond school. It is therefore incredibly rewarding to see so much of this recognised by Ofsted.
The inspection confirms that the school is meeting the expected standard across all areas and recognises our Post-16 provision as a “Strong Standard”, a judgement reserved for provision operating above the standard expected nationally. Inspectors praised the personalised nature of our curriculum, the quality of teaching, students’ readiness for their next steps and the extensive opportunities available to them through work-related learning and enrichment.
For a Studio School, this is a particularly significant achievement. Studio Schools are designed to offer a distinctive model of education, blending academic and vocational learning with real-world experiences and strong employer connections. The report recognises many of the features that make our school unique and, in our view, places Queen Elizabeth Studio School amongst the leading examples of Studio School education nationally.
We were especially pleased that inspectors highlighted:
- The calm, respectful and inclusive culture across the school.
- The positive relationships between students and staff and the strong safeguarding culture.
- The broad curriculum and specialist pathways that support students’ aspirations.
- The extensive personal development opportunities, including Duke of Edinburgh, public speaking, performances, environmental projects and leadership experiences.
- The strength of our careers programme, employer engagement and preparation for future education, employment and training.
- The confidence, independence and maturity demonstrated by our students.
Inspectors also recognised the work undertaken by leaders, governors and trustees to strengthen the school, improve teaching and develop an ambitious curriculum that meets the needs of our young people.
Importantly, the report is balanced and developmental. Ofsted has identified areas where we can continue to improve, particularly around ensuring greater consistency in assessment and feedback across subjects and continuing our work to improve attendance alongside all schools nationally. These priorities align closely with our own self-evaluation, and we already have plans in place to address them.
I would like to thank our students, whose conduct, enthusiasm and honesty during the inspection were a credit to themselves and the school. I would also like to thank our staff, governors, trustees, employer partners and, most importantly, our families. Your support, trust and commitment enable us to provide the unique opportunities that make Queen Elizabeth Studio School such a special place.
We are incredibly proud of this report and of what it says about our school community. While we will take time to celebrate this achievement, we remain ambitious for the future and committed to ensuring that every young person who attends Queen Elizabeth Studio School receives an exceptional education and the very best preparation for adult life.
Thank you for your continued support.
Yours faithfully,
David Waugh
Executive Headteacher, Queen Elizabeth School & Queen Elizabeth Studio School
Trust Leader, Lunesdale Learning Trust
