A partnership between two colleges has been praised for its outstanding achievement.
The Durham Federation, made up of Fyndoune Community College and Durham Community Business College, was praised at the National Head Teachers Conference by HM Chief Inspector of Education, Children’s Services and Skills, Sir Michael Wilshaw.
Sir Michael named Anne Lakey, Chief Executive of The Durham Federation, as being one of the best examples nationally of inspiring leadership.
Sir Michael has already visited The Durham Federation because he wanted to find out more about how schools in relatively deprived areas still manage to achieve the very best standards for all groups of students. He met staff and students in English, maths and history, as well as visiting the college farm where he talked to many students who wanted to go onto medical and veterinary careers.
English and maths results at The Durham Federation are significantly above national standards and Sir Michael was very interested in how this had been achieved.
Both colleges within The Durham Federation received a judgement of Outstanding by OfSTED in 2011
Anne Lakey, Chief Executive of The Durham Federation, said: “To be judged Outstanding twice in one year by OfSTED was an amazing experience. We are incredibly proud of our students and staff and to have Sir Michael Wilshaw recognise our achievements is great for our staff, students and forCountyDurham.
“We do give our students the very best exam successes and life chances.”
Pictured are: Megan Holmes, Lucy Debrick, Lauren Cook and Bethany Jackson with teacher Ashleigh Fielding.
