How important is it to get your kids into a decent school? Does a good Ofsted report make any difference? Don't answer that question on the grounds it's obvious, everybody wants their children to do well and everybody wants their children to attend good schools. In my view a school that has just received a bad Ofsted report shouldn't be written off, in fact in a year or so that very same school may receive a great report due to the proverbial socks being pulled up but often it's too late, the local parents are already pulling their hair out and considering other options, schools or even private, for those who can afford it. I am sure schools and their heads want to do well and therefore will do what they can to improve their results and raise the profile of the school they run, all with help from the local community and the parents.

If your school has just recieved a below average report I would suggest staying with them, ask if you can help or get involved and give them time to recover.

Ask how many people failed their driving test on the one day they really need to concentrate. I base my local school firstly how happy the kids are and secondly on their progress.

Let's not write off the lower reporting schools and get involved in helping them get back on track. This is a debate that could go on for a long time but maybe leave your comments on your local schools as I personally would like to hear more on this subject.

If you would like to view the reports for local schools check out this link.

http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/oxfind/name?search=SE19+2DS&submit=Search