[G]reenhead Church of England Primary School in Brampton, Cumbria, has just achieved the second best Ofsted rating after a rigorous two-day inspection by an experienced Ofsted inspector.
The headteacher is a driving force behind the improvement: she knows exactly what to do so the school can improve further.
The Ofsted report, published today, judges the small, rural school to be ‘Good’ in all key areas. This is an improvement from the previous inspection just two years ago, despite a tougher Ofsted framework than before. The report noted that “Lessons are carefully planned to capture pupils’ interest… as a result, pupils learn well and make good progress.” Alongside the high academic expectations, the report praised the school for being “a caring community [that gives pupils] a strong sense of belonging… Pupils are kind and considerate to one another, and are always ready to offer a helping hand.”
This finding is endorsed by the pupils themselves, who say they are proud of their school, and enjoy the calm school environment. They say there is no bullying and that no one is treated unkindly. They feel safe, particularly as they have had visits from the police to help them understand how to keep themselves safe, including when using the internet and mobile technology.
A driving force for improvement has been the new executive headteacher, Mrs Sarah Hutchinson, whose “quiet determination to improve the school is both impressive and successful. She knows exactly what the school needs to do in order to improve further.”
Mrs Hutchinson said “I am so proud that the combined hard work of staff, children, governors and parents, as well as many other stakeholders has been recognised so positively. This report forms the basis for even greater improvement, and I am confident the school will remain one of the best in the area for years to come.”
In addition, the governors were praised for providing “clear, strategic direction… support… and helpful challenge”, while it was noted that parents are very supportive of the school, having seen the big improvements that have been made.
Chair of Governors Pippa Milburn, said: “I would like to thank all the pupils, their parents and the wider community for their continued support. The support of Local Authority Consultant Judith Meek and the Diocese of Newcastle have strengthened our Christian ethos, and embedded a good solid structure for teaching and learning. This is an exciting time and I feel proud and privileged to be part of the leadership team taking this school forwards.”
The final line in the report states “Children thrive in this setting. The approach to learning harnesses both their creativity and their inquisitive nature.”
