Primary school in Oswestry 'thrilled' with Ofsted report and praise for development, expectations and support of children

A report published on May 6 began by saying that pupils "enjoy" going to the school and praised staff for the high standards and expectations that they have of pupils.

Children are said to learn an "ambitious curriculum" at the primary school. The report stated that the school is "ambitious" for all of its children and that leaders "act in the best interest" of pupils.

Relationships at the school are described as "very positive", and pupils' positive attitudes are said to be "rewarded and celebrated". 

The report added that staff know and care for pupils "very well", and said individual pupils are given extensive support with any medical or emotional issues.

Ofsted recognised pupils' wider development as a "strength in the school". The report said pupils have ample opportunities to "extend their horizons and broaden their interests" such as extra-curricular trips and activities. 

These include school council, helping in the library, running a book shop to raise money for charity, representing the school at sports events, and links with a school in Kenya.

The report said: "Pupils enjoy coming to this school. They settle in quickly after starting in Reception. They feel safe and say there is no bullying.

"Pupils are usually very happy, polite and confident. They behave well and work eagerly in lessons. They enjoy talking to each other and using the attractive and well-resourced playground.

"The school has high expectations of all pupils. Experienced staff keep a close eye on all pupils. They know if any pupils struggle or fall behind. They provide extra help quickly, including to pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

"Leaders have worked hard to improve many aspects of the school since the last inspection (in 2019). Better outdoor provision in the early years and a new curriculum in most subjects mean that pupils have wider and more effective learning opportunities."

The next visit by Ofsted to Trefonen CofE Primary School will be a graded inspection.

Speaking on behalf of the primary school in Oswestry, Headteacher, Cathy Dunleavy said: "We are thrilled that our recent inspection recognised so many of the strengths that make Trefonen such a happy and thriving school where every child can flourish. 

"Inspectors praised our school's high expectations, ambitious curriculum, and strong focus on pupils’ wider development. They recognised that children enjoy coming to our school, they feel safe, they behave well, and they take part in a wide range of activities that help them grow in confidence and broaden their horizons. Our school staff were especially commended for knowing and caring for pupils exceptionally well, particularly those with special educational needs.

"We are delighted to hear that most parents and carers feel their children are happy and making good progress at our school. A small few have told us that they would like better home-school communication, our school values this constructive feedback and we are listening - we are already working on new ways to strengthen our partnerships with families to help our families feel more informed and involved."

The full report can be read here.