Ashton-on-Mersey School has been delivering OLEVI programmes for over five years. Nick Parry, Assistant Principal of Teaching & Learning, tells us how OLEVI programmes WILL change the culture of teaching and learning at your school.

“The above statement is based on the fact that, for Ashton-on-Mersey School, more so than any other strategy or initiative that we implement, the Olevi programmes are responsible for securing the Ofsted grade 1 for ‘quality of teaching’.

The focus may initially appear to be on supporting and developing targeted individual teachers but what is abundantly clear is that the programmes’ ethos creates a climate whereby teaching and learning becomes open, reflective and shared across the school.

Schools may consider that the lesson observations, ward rounds and ‘in-school practice’ are discrete elements of the programmes and any whole school benefit is simply an opportune by-product. However, it is these components which drive our school’s expectations of teaching and learning for all staff and pupils.

After four Ofsted inspections since the process began, Ashton-on-Mersey has always been ‘outstanding’ overall, of which we are very proud. It was only at the fourth, and most recent, visit that we were awarded the coveted grade 1 for quality of teaching. Currently 97% of our lessons are good or better, with 42% deemed outstanding. No accident that this coincides with the firm establishment and embedding of the Olevi principles.

Peer observations and weekly learning walks for all staff are common-place. A buddy system and coaching structure is established. WWW/EBI is a regular feature of evaluations. Staff and pupils are comfortable and actually enjoy the presence of colleagues and visitors in their lessons, recognising the value and benefits for all. Systems for improving the quality of teaching and learning are transparent, supportive and collaborative.

Ashton-on-Mersey School was one of the first to become involved with Olevi’s programmes following the London Challenge. The last five years has seen us develop into a Designated Olevi Centre, providing ITP, OTP (including Coaching), OFP, Power of Coaching Training and QA.

We are very proud of this partnership and the status we have accomplished. We are even prouder of the high quality teaching and learning that exists as a result!”

Nick Parry, Assistant Principal,
Teaching & Learning, Ashton-on-Mersey School