IT was certainly ‘good’ news for Friezland Primary School after their latest inspection by Ofsted.
Pupils and teachers were left celebrating after being rated ‘good’ in each of the five categories and for overall effectiveness after the two-day visit by HMI in April.
The inspection included rigorous work scrutinies, observations and interviews with a range of stakeholders, and sees the school improve on their ‘requires improvement’ rating from 2016.
Delighted headteacher Rachael Swaby said: “We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the report which verifies our internal judgements that Friezland School is a ‘good’ school in all areas.
“The report reflects the team’s dedication, rigour and hard work over the last two-and-a-half years, which has ensured our children have received the education they deserve.”
The report describes the Church Road school as ‘a happy school’ where ‘pupils feel safe and are well cared for’ and ‘relationships between staff and pupils are strong’.
It adds: “The headteacher has worked with determination to secure improvements in the quality of education at the school. She is well supported by the assistant headteacher, governors and staff.
“Teachers use their good subject knowledge and questioning well to develop pupils’ understanding.
However, some of the most able pupils are not challenged sufficiently.
“Leaders ensure that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are provided with tailored support. Consequently, these pupils make strong progress in their learning.
“Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is strong. Consequently, they are well prepared for life in modern Britain.
“Parents and carers are overwhelmingly positive about the school. They appreciate the care and support that their children receive.
“Pupils enjoy coming to the school. Pupils’ attendance has been above the national average for the past three years.
“Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school.
“They are confident, respectful and polite towards others. Bullying is rare.
“The curriculum is well planned. There is a wide array of extra-curricular activities, such as sport, music and dance. Pupils relish participating in sports, educational trips and residential visits.”
The report’s recommendations for the school include further developing the skills of subject leaders so they can improve the quality of teaching and raise standards in their areas of responsibility, and improve the effectiveness of the early years by developing outdoor provision so it contains rich and imaginative opportunities more closely linked to areas of learning.
Miss Swaby added: “With every inspection, there are always next steps identified for a school which should support continued growth and sustainability.
“Many of the areas recommended for improvements were identified through discussions with staff and had already been reflected in this year’s School Development Plan with actions currently in place.
“The inspector agreed with leaders that there was evidence to show the areas identified were already being addressed.”
She concluded: “We are proud of the school’s progress and we will continue to work hard to fulfil our mission statement ‘A Family Committed to Making a Difference’.”
