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A follow-up to a highly critical inspection report of Beaulieu – which highlighted leadership failings and "inconsistencies in the quality of teaching" –has said that the school is taking "effective action" to remedy its problems.
The Independent Jersey Schools Review Framework report was conducted in November 2022 by a team of five people, including an experienced off-island education consultant, and four education advisers from the Education Department.
The report was made public in January after the departure of "stalwart" senior staff member Andrea Kirby, whose controversial exit led to a petition being signed by more than 1,000 people.
This was shortly followed by a restructuring of the school’s senior management, and the stepping-back of the former Head Teacher Chris Beirne.
Among the report's findings were observations that some staff had been "over-generous" in their self-assessment and that recent changes in senior leadership and poor communication had led to "a lack of accountability and a dip in educational standards".
Now, a follow-up report has been written after a visit to the convent school in April by the same off-island school inspector who led the original review team in November.
Pictured: Former Head Teacher Chris Beirne.
The follow-up report has concluded that the school's senior leaders and trustees are "taking effective action to tackle the key areas identified for improvement", including prioritising improving communication with parents, developing a new strategic vision for the school for the next 18 months, and transforming their record keeping systems in relation to the checks that are made on staff.
Minister for Children and Education, Deputy Inna Gardiner, said: “I am reassured to read of the progress made and look forward to this continuing. I know how important this is to Beaulieu parents. I am grateful for the work of the school and the CYPES team and what has been achieved in a short space of time.”
Pictured: Minister for Children and Education, Deputy Inna Gardiner.
Paul Robinson, Acting Headteacher at Beaulieu, added: "I am overwhelmed by the response that the school has received in recent months from all members of the Beaulieu community and we are appreciative of the continued support and guidance being offered to Beaulieu by the Government of Jersey.
“I would like to thank all staff at Beaulieu, who have risen to the challenge of responding to the November report with dedication, determination and passion. All staff remain fully committed to the students under our care, and I look forward to continuing to work with parents, students and staff, so that Beaulieu remains and continues to develop as a wonderful place to both learn and work."
The full report can be read HERE.
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