A happy and friendly atmosphere has been created for staff and children thanks to the new leadership team at Robert Arkenstall Primary School, according to Ofsted inspectors.
Kate Bonney, headteacher, is credited for bringing a “calm and positive style of leadership to the school” and for working well with her deputy, Rob Fisher, at the village setting.
Ms Bonney, who has only been in the leadership role for six months, has: “Maintained high levels of challenge to staff, while ensuring that the school continues to be a happy and friendly place in which to work and learn,” said Ofsted inspector Mike Capper.
“There is a strong sense of teamwork across the school,” he added.
Ms Bonney said: “We are delighted. Just with us for a day, the inspector has captured what we are about and has included many vignettes which tell the story of this community school.
“We feel that he saw us and understood us, from the care of the site manager to the before school sports clubs, the assembly delivery and children’s singing.
“With the contribution of parents, governors and pupils, who spoke happily and with relish about their learning – a happy and caring place came through.
“We are very pleased that he clearly recognised the continuity of learning over the past few years here and the recommendations from the report closely mirror our school development plan.”
She added: “It was a happy experience for the whole team and we congratulate them for their professionalism and care in continuing to deliver a great learning environment for the children to thrive, pursue possibilities and love learning.”
Inspector Capper said: “Staff ensure that the school’s motto ‘Pursue possibilities; love learning’ is reflected in all aspects of its work.
“Together you have established a culture where pupils develop a I can do attitude towards learning.
“They show good resilience and confidence when working and they develop a love of learning,” he said.
The report, published last month, said that there is a stimulating and welcoming environment where success is celebrated.
“There is a delightful atmosphere in special day assemblies when pupils contribute to books that highlight their friends’ personal qualities.”
By the time they are ready to leave for secondary school pupils are above average in reading, writing and mathematics, Mr Capper said.
He added: “In your previous inspection leaders were asked to improve procedures for improving teaching. This has been tackled well.
“The new leadership team has quickly got to grips with the next steps for the school.”
The school has been advised to make sure the most able children are always challenged to achieve their best in mathematics, support disadvantaged pupils with greater vigour and involve more staff in middle leadership roles.
One parent commented: “I would recommend this school to any parent whether their child is outgoing, quiet, shy, studious or carefree.”
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