St John Fisher School declined to provide an interview with either the chairwoman of the governors or the headteacher, but issued the following statement from Judith Jones, the school's chairwoman of the governors:
"The school was subject to allegations of gang bullying of Polish students. These allegations were insulting and hurtful. Ofsted found no evidence to support these claims and the media interest caused undue pressure for staff and pupils.
The recent inspection report has failed to take into account the diversity of our students, as well as the school's positive contextual value added scores. Our school has the third highest CVA score at Key Stage 3 and the fourth highest CVA score at Key Stage 4 in Peterborough. It is surprising that the Inspectors were not satisfied with this achievement.
We are delighted however that the report has reflected the strength of our sixth form and the excellent progress made by our pupils.
The inspection report has also not adequately recognised the level of care given to our pupils. Both parents and visitors frequently acknowledge the positive relationships within the school and the sense of community.
Our highly valued staff, led by an extremely dedicated headteacher, continues to work for the good of our pupils, and the governing body wholeheartedly supports them in their endeavours.
We now look forward to working with all stakeholders to raise the standards and achievement of our pupils still further."
Special Report: Damning Ofsted report for St John Fisher School, June 2008.
The full article contains 257 words and appears in Peterborough ET newspaper.
