What are the differences between successful and failing schools

What are the variables which define a successful school?
STUDIES OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS THE KEY ASPECTS TO A SUCCESSFUL INSPECTION BENEFITS?
	In secondary schools. The work of Ofsted and the process of school inspection continue to generate much discussion and controversy. The impact of Ofsted inspection on a school can vary depending on the number of variables. BEFORE INSPECTION IS ANNOUNCED - Schools culture. - Schools view of its own strengths and weaknesses. - The quality and commitment of staff. *BEFORE INSPECTION* - Schools and teachers attitudes towards inspection. - The extent to which the school felt under the threat of 'failing' *DURING INSPECTION* - The quality and perceived quality of the inspection team. - The feedback, advice and support of the inspection team. *AFTER INSPECTION* - The extent to which the report was seen as fair and accurate - The extent to which key issues were achievable.
Studies of secondary schools TOP OF PAGE
	A study was carried out on Uxbridge High school in 1994. This is a comprehensive secondary school in the London area. Key areas were noticed which researchers agreed attributed to the schools good grades in the inspection itself. - The Head welcomed the inspection. - The thorough inspection was well received by most staff in the school. Also researched was a self-governing, mixed day school, which had 1100 pupils. This was located in one of London's urban areas, found to be an area of social deprivation and low-income. This school however also achieved excellent grades in its inspection. Key areas noticed were: - The Head and staff welcomed the inspection. - The inspection itself was effectively organised and as relaxed as possible. - Good professional relationships were built between the heads of departments and the inspectors. The inspection report read; ' A well-run, caring community, with a high level of staff commitment'
The key aspects to a successful inspection TOP OF PAGE
	The preparation stage is very important and needs to be carefully planned and managed if schools are to make the most of inspections. - Teaching staff should be informed as soon as possible. - Headteachers should inform inspection in a positive way, giving a clear account of the inspection process. Managing the inspection is also extremely important to reinforce positive attitudes. - allocate roles and focus on responsibilities. - Timetable different events. Parents have a significant role to play in the inspection. Parental views about different aspects of the school will be part of the evidence inspectors will use to make their judgements. - Inform parents - Explain their role - Document parental involvement.
Benefits?
	There are benefits to be gained from inspections. Schools have the potential to use inspection as part of a long term process of review and development. For most schools inspection will provide a fair reflection of their current stage of development, although they may not agree with everything.