Parents across Merseyside may have just found out where their children will be starting secondary school this September, but others will be starting their research as they prepare to send applications off in the autumn. One way by which parents decide which schools to apply for is by looking at Ofsted ratings.
Ofsted is the regulatory body for education establishments, such as schools and colleges, providing institutions with ratings on a four-point scale, ranging from 'inadequate' to 'outstanding'. Grades are based on overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviours and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
Many schools across Merseyside are rated as ‘good’, however, fewer have been awarded the top mark. We have scoured the ratings to find out which schools are the most highly rated, with two Sefton secondary schools ranked 'outstanding' in 2024, and 17 receiving a 'good' mark.
Information is correct at the time of publishing - March 27, 2024. Please note, some schools featured in this list have not been inspected for a number of years.
Many schools across Merseyside are rated as ‘good’, however, fewer have been awarded the top mark. We have scoured the ratings to find out which schools are the most highly rated, with two Sefton secondary schools ranked 'outstanding' in 2024, and 17 receiving a 'good' mark.
5. Deyes High School, Maghull - Good
Published in April 2019, the Ofsted report for Deyes High School states: "Teaching is effective. For the most part, teachers use accurate assessments well to match activities with pupils’ prior attainment and capabilities. Teachers and leaders ensure that pupils behave well in lessons and at social times. The school is a calm, orderly and purposeful community." Photo: Stock image via Stock Adobe/Monkey Business
6. Formby High School, Formby - Good
Published in December 2022, the Ofsted report for Formby High School states: "The pupils describe Formby High School as a welcoming and friendly school where people’s differences are celebrated. Pupils settle into school quickly and soon become part of the school community. Pupils are inspired to succeed. Pupils told inspectors that they are proud to attend the school." Photo: Google Street View
7. Greenback High School, Southport - Good
Published in November 2022, the Ofsted report for Greenbank High School reads: "Pupils are happy at Greenbank High School and they value the education that they receive. Pupils embrace the school’s values of a ‘can-do’ attitude and strive to be the best they can be. Everyone feels accepted and welcome. Leaders and staff have high expectations for pupils. In lessons, pupils are focused fully on their learning and behave well. Leaders and staff have worked diligently to ensure that pupils’ learning is well thought through. Pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education." Photo: Google Street View
8. Hillside High School, Bootle - Good
Published in October 2023, the Ofsted report for Hillside High School states: "Hillside High School is an accepting community. Pupils feel welcome and diversity is celebrated. For instance, pupils proudly took part in an ‘around the world in eighty days’ event to promote their culture and educate others about it. Pupils benefit from high levels of pastoral support. Relationships between staff and pupils are warm. Pupils understand that staff only want the best for them." Photo: Google Street View