ofsted gives school the thumbs up (From Warrington Guardian)

orford school st annes CE primary given good ofsted

3:09pm Thursday 12th July 2012 in Orford, Woolston, Padgate & Longford

AN Orford primary school has been commended by Ofsted.

St Ann’s CE Primary School on Lathom Avenue, was rated as ‘good’ during its latest inspection.

Marie Cordey, lead inspector, praised various aspects including teaching and attainment.

She said: “This is a good school.

“Parents and carers are overwhelmingly positive about the school’s effectiveness and comment about its excellent spiritual character.

“Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding.

“Achievement is good. Children in the early years foundation stage make good progress from their low starting points and are curious, enthusiastic learners.

“By the end of year two, pupils’ attainment is below average, although this is rapidly improving, especially in reading.

“The quality of teaching is good and includes some teaching that is outstanding.

“High expectations, consistent challenge and the engagement of pupils in their learning characterise the most effective lessons.”

Areas that need improving were also noted. Attainment in mental maths and spelling ‘lag behind’ other subjects, while ‘some weaknesses’ remain in the assessment of pupils’ work by teachers, said Ofsted.

The inspection, which took place with two days’ notice, was scored two or ‘good’ in every category.

Eight teachers were observed 15 lessons visited.

The education watchdog said foundations are in place for the school to become outstanding.

Mrs Cordey added: “Leadership is a driving force for improvement. Senior leaders and the governing body are ambitious and unequivocal in their commitment to raise attainment and to ensure that the school is a happy place in which to learn.”