THE secret of one headteacher's success in turning around a failing school was spelt out to a leading politician.
Oliver Letwin, the Tory Party's head of policy making, made a impromptu visit to Withins School in Breightmet during a tour of the North-west after hearing how it had transformed from a failing school to one of Bolton's greatest success stories.
The Newby Road secondary school has gone from being in special measures to becoming one of the most improved state schools in the country, with GCSE results soaring in recent years.
The number of pupils achieving five A*-C grades has gone up from 18 per cent in 2002 to 58 per cent in last summer's exams, putting it in the top 10 of local schools.
Some children are even embarking on A-level science courses while still in school after completing their GCSE a year early.
Headteacher Phil Mather said it was a "simple policy based on self-belief".
He said: "When I came, it was instilling that self-belief in staff and pupils and it works.
"The success of this school is a very important message the community needs to hear."
The headteacher called on all politicians to help children by raising their aspirations and expectations by introducing qualifications suited to all pupils.
He said: "There are more courses and alternatives to A-levels to keep pupils on in further education."
Pupil Daniel Greenhalgh, aged 16, said: "It is important for politicians to visit schools and realise that one policy does not work for everyone. They should listen to teachers and pupils and find out what they think.
"I think the curriculum should be broader and include topics like music theory as well as the practical side."
Mr Letwin said people such as Mr Mather could influence policy-making in Westminster. He said: "We are using our time in opposition to speak to a whole group of people like Mr Mather to improve public services. Those views can be implemented during the policy-making. We want to know the concerns of communities and get them involved.
"The grades at this school are to be celebrated but so are the other achievements."
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