Headteacher's pride at 'positive progress' after Ironbridge Gorge primary school's Ofsted verdict

A headteacher has spoken of her pride after Ofsted delivered its verdict on a Shropshire primary school.

Inspectors have published their report after visiting Coalbrookdale and Ironbridge Church of England Primary School last month.

They concluded that the trust had reached a “strong standard” in two categories - “attendance and behaviour” and “personal development and wellbeing”, and expected standards in “achievement”, “curriculum and teaching”, “early years”, “inclusion”, and “leadership and governance”.

The report noted that the pupils’ attendance is high and that their “behaviour in lessons and around the school is highly positive”. Respect is shown for each other and adults, with pupils saying bullying is “rare” as it is dealt with quickly if it happens.

The experience for pupils at the school was found to be “calm, nurturing and welcoming”, with staff knowing individuals well, allowing them to help with clear routines to ensure they feel settled and secure.

The relationships were described as “positive and trusting” and pupils feel safe, listened to and well supported.

The report noted that pupils talk confidently about how adults help them manage worries, and how the school teaches them to stay safe, including online.

Inspectors found they spoke with clarity about their understanding of equality, respect and the importance of celebrating differences.

Personal development was detailed as a clear priority in the school, with leaders said to pay close attention to pupils who need extra pastoral support.

Academically, the school’s results were found to be broadly in line with national averages, with effective action taken to address aspects of pupils’ achievement that are not as secure, including improving pupils’ achievement in writing.

The curriculum at the school was found to be ambitious, with pupils enthusiastic about their learning and taking pride in the work they produce.

Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) were found to benefit from well-matched support and guidance and the school’s leaders were also seen as working closely with external partners to strengthen support for individuals who are known to social care or who face wider challenges.

Headteacher Mandy Dhaliwal welcomed the findings, saying: “This report clearly reflects the positive progress that has been made at our school, and I am incredibly proud of everyone who has played their part in the significant steps forward we have made in recent years.

“To see inspectors shower our school with such glowing praise is very rewarding and to read to that our pupils are so happy here makes all the hard work done worthwhile.

“We will not be resting on our laurels as we know there are further improvements to be made, but to read a report that fully acknowledges the progress we have made is just the reward our whole school community deserves.”

The school will shortly be joining the Diocese of Hereford Multi-Academy Trust.