Telford primary school 'delighted' after Ofsted finds 'considerable progress'

Teagues Bridge Primary School in Trench, Telford, has been praised by inspectors for being a “safe and welcoming community” following a recent visit.

Two years ago, the primary school, which is the term-time home to around 265 pupils, was rated ‘requires improvement’ after inspectors found inconsistencies in curriculum delivery and assessment processes, as well as weaknesses in leadership and management.

The latest report, published on Monday (July 6), shows the school now meets the ‘expected standard’ for leadership and governance, inclusion, attendance and behaviour, and its early years provision.

Safeguarding at the Telford primary was judged to be effective, with inspectors noting an “open and positive culture” where concerns are identified and acted upon. Pupils told inspectors they feel safe, supported and welcomed, describing the school as an inclusive community.

Behaviour and attitudes were also highlighted as strengths. Classrooms were described as calm and purposeful, bullying was found to be rare, and pupils routinely showed courtesy - including holding doors open for adults and greeting visitors politely.

While inspectors found a “notable improvement” in writing and key stage 2 results since the last inspection, the report stated that achievement was “not consistently secure” across the school and more work was needed.

The report also stated that while recent improvement to teaching and the curriculum was beginning to strenghten the quality of pupils’ work, that area was also graded as ‘needs attention’.

Sarah Abdulla, Head Teacher at Teagues Bridge Primary School, said: “We are delighted with the findings of this latest Ofsted inspection, which recognise the considerable progress our school has made since the previous inspection.

“The report highlights leadership and governance, inclusion, attendance and behaviour, and our early years provision as particular strengths, and reflects the clear vision and strong culture that staff have worked hard to create for our children.

“I am incredibly proud of our pupils, who inspectors described as confident, respectful and enthusiastic learners, and of our dedicated staff and governors whose commitment has driven these improvements. It is especially encouraging that Ofsted recognised the positive impact of the work we have undertaken, including improving outcomes for pupils and ensuring that children feel safe, supported and valued.

"While we are pleased that inspectors have recognised how far the school has come, we remain ambitious for every child.

“We welcome the feedback in the report and will continue to build on the improvements already made and focus on the next steps identified by inspectors to ensure all pupils achieve their very best."