Soham primary gets glowing report from inspectors

A PRIMARY school in Soham has received a glowing report from Government inspectors, OfSTED.

The schools inspectorate praised the quality of teaching, the behaviour of pupils and the leadership at St Andrew’s Church of England Primary School in Soham.

The team from OfSTED said improvements since the last inspection have ensured the school is now providing a good education.

“Teaching is good across the school, enabling pupils to make good progress. Teachers have good subject knowledge. Assessment information is used well and there are clear learning objectives.

“Pupils say they find learning enjoyable and this was confirmed through lesson observations. Teachers question pupils well, eliciting well-thought out responses. In the best lessons teachers generate much enthusiasm,” said inspectors.

Inspectors also said that pupils behaved well and were enthusiastic learners, taking full advantage of the wide range of curriculum opportunities on offer.

They praised the work of the school’s senior leadership team and governing body, adding that self-evaluation was rigorous and there had been a clear and successful focus on improving the quality of teaching and raising standards.

“The leadership team has a clear vision for improving the learning environment, raising attainment and improving the provision. Morale is high and there is a keen sense of purpose to make learning exciting and enjoyable, said the inspectors’ report.

“The management of teaching and learning is rigorous with regular lesson observations, identifying accurately the strengths and where improvements are needed.”

Headteacher Richard Liddington said: “We are extremely pleased with the judgments that have been awarded to the school, particularly as the inspection framework has changed and it has become much harder to achieve these higher grades. We believe that the report accurately reflects the significant improvements that the school has made since the last inspection.”