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As we approach the end of the Christmas term, I have been reflecting not only on all we have achieved this year, but also on the work that continues behind the scenes to ensure our school remains the very best it can be.

Recently, I have attended several meetings with fellow headteachers to gain an in-depth understanding of the new Ofsted inspection framework. Although our last inspection was only three years ago—meaning we are unlikely to receive a visit in the near future—it is always wise to be prepared.

We often say that great schools never stand still, and it has been reassuring to see how strongly this principle aligns with the direction set out in the new framework. Everything we have already put in place, and all that we continue to develop, positions us well for what lies ahead. I felt it would be helpful to share with you some of the key changes.

What Has Changed? One of the most significant changes is that schools will no longer receive a single overall grade. At present, we are judged as a Good school. Under the new framework, however, inspectors will evaluate seven distinct areas:

Each of these areas, except Safeguarding, will receive its own judgement, providing a more detailed picture of a school’s strengths and priorities.

Whereas the previous system used four grades, the new framework introduces five. It is important to note that three of these - Attention Required, Expected Standard and Strong Standard - sit closely together. During a briefing led by His Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI) last week, it was made clear that most schools nationwide are expected to fall within the Expected Standard category. Very few will achieve Exceptional, and it is likely that most schools may receive Attention Needed in particular areas. This does not mean that a school is failing; rather, it highlights aspects for continued development.

Another significant change relates to how inspectors reach their judgements. Previously, a ‘best fit’ approach was used: if most criteria were met, the higher judgement could be awarded, with areas for improvement noted to the headteacher. In contrast, the new system instead uses a ‘secure fit’ method. This means that all criteria for a category must be met in order for that judgement to be awarded. If even one criterion is not fully met, the lower judgement will apply. While this approach is more rigorous, it also ensures absolute clarity and consistency across schools. Here is an example of how the first page of the report card might look:

What This Means for Us: We feel confident that we will meet at least the Expected Standard in all areas. Our ongoing commitment to high standards, our clear improvement priorities, and the strength of our school community place us in a compelling position for when the time comes.

As always, we are grateful for your continued support. Working together—staff, parents, carers and students—we will ensure that Harrow Way continues to thrive under this new framework and beyond.

I hope students enjoy the long weekend. I’m looking forward to a productive and positive final week of school.
Mrs Dawn German

All key dates for 2025-26 are also available on the website.

Assembly - Human Rights Week
This week in our assemblies we have been finding out some of the early origins and the foundations of our human rights. We also looked at the repercussions of taking them away and seeing what our world may look like if we didn't have the protection of human rights.

Christmas Lunch Payment Reminder
If your child has ordered a Christmas Lunch, please ensure £3.20 is in their SCOPAY account on the day.

Christmas Lunch Dates:

We’re looking forward to a lovely festive lunch! 🎄

Please note: it’s too late to order lunch now, as numbers have already been submitted to the kitchen. Students in Year 7 & 8 who haven’t ordered a meal should either buy food at breaktime or bring a packed lunch, as they will all be in the auditorium for the entire event.

Lost Property Notice
Several unnamed items, including coats, blazers, and PE kits, are currently in the Medical Room/Student Reception. Please encourage your child to check for and collect any belongings.

Please note: As these items are unnamed, they cannot be returned to specific owners as we would normally do. At the end of term any unclaimed items will be donated to the school’s second-hand uniform shop or recycled.

Now is the perfect time to collect any lost property before it is donated or recycled!

Students Unwell in School - Gentle Reminder:
As outlined on our school website, students should not contact home directly if they feel unwell. Instead, they must report to the Medical Room, where our staff will assess their condition and contact parents/carers if necessary.

If you choose to send your child to school while they are feeling under the weather, we will assume that you have determined they are well enough to attend. We will respect that decision unless their condition worsens during the day. In the first instance, appropriate medication will be offered according to school procedures. If their condition does not improve, we will contact you promptly.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us look after all our students.

Reporting Absence via the MyChildAtSchool (MCAS) App
From Monday 8th December, you will now be able to report your child’s absence via the MCAS parent app, going forward this will be our preferred method of notification.

Below is an image of  how and where it appears on your child’s Dashboard. Click on Report an Absence and complete the form.

You can also use this to notify the school if you child will be arriving late or needs to leave early for an appointment.

Could your child be the Young Change-Maker of the Year?
DEADLINE IS 19th DECEMBER 2025.

Our students are making a difference in our community. Please support them to apply now for our 'Superkind: Young Changemaker of the Year' award and show how kindness is changing lives!

More details and how to Enter can be found HERE

Public Consultations
Consultation on the future of Smannell and Enham Church of England Primary School

Ways Forward - our weekly newsletter for Careers, Apprenticeship, College, Work and Work Experience.

You might have heard in the news this week that the Government plans to launch 50,000 new apprenticeships for young people; find out more about that and see whether one might suit your child, either straight after school or in the future.

Also, parents/carers might be interested in attending a virtual webinar to find out more about careers in the British Army, and the 'Days of Wrk' website tells you more about what different careers are actually like in reality.

There are several new virtual work experience placements available during February half-term (but you need to apply well before this).

This week, we have been promoting some new stock and also the recommended follow on reads to the Autumn term tutor group reading programme. We also hosted the rewards breakfast for the Hampshire Youth Parliament candidates and associated helpers.

Year 7 Rudolph Run
The sponsorship forms are in, we'll count up all your donations and present the Hospice with an oversized cheque during the Christmas lunch next week.

Check out the latest news, fundraising initiatives and upcoming events from the PTA here - harrowwaypta.charityhive.co.uk

For local community events and information, please click the button below:

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Harrow Way Community School,
Harrow Way,
Andover,
Hampshire.
SP10 3RH