INTRODUCTION

The inspection was carried out by one of Her Majesty's Inspectors and four additional inspectors.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHOOL

Ashton on Mersey is a larger than average secondary modern school. In September 2008 the school opened a new sixth form with purpose-built facilities. The school's population is largely of White British heritage with a small percentage from minority ethnic backgrounds. A lower than average proportion of students is eligible for free school meals. The number of students with learning difficulties and / or disabilities is a above the national average. The school is part of the West Trafford Learning Partnership and was federated with Broadoak School in 2006. The school shares an executive headteacher, director of finance and governing body; some courses and facilities are open to students in both schools. Ashton-on-Mersey became a specialist sports college in 1998, was awarded high performing specialist school status in 2005 and gained a second specialism in applied learning in 2006. It has held designated Training School status since 2003. The school holds Healthy School, Sportsmark, Artsmark Gold and Investors in People awards.

'OUTSTANDING SCHOOL'

This inspection was carried out under section 5 of the Education Act 2005.