Ofsted praise for 'inspirational' head and good school

Ofsted has praised a headteacher's 'inspirational' leadership following her school's first inspection in almost five years.
Staff and children at Wisborough Green PrimaryStaff and children at Wisborough Green Primary
Staff and children at Wisborough Green Primary

Wisborough Green Primary was rated ‘good’ in all areas after a visit from inspectors Lynda Welham and Stephanie Scutter.

A highly positive report from the inspectors said of Amanda Harrison and her team: “The headteacher provides inspirational leadership, which has galvanised staff into a cohesive and effective team. She is ably supported by the deputy headteacher.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Leaders have been relentless in tackling previous underachievement.”

Amanda Harrison, head of Wisborough Green PrimaryAmanda Harrison, head of Wisborough Green Primary
Amanda Harrison, head of Wisborough Green Primary

There was praise as well for the pupils at Wisborough Green. Their behaviour was seen to be good and their attitude to work enthusiastic.

The report added: “They approach learning with confidence and determination to succeed.”

The inspectors noted that the vast majority of parents were pleased with the school. One told them: “This is a warm and welcoming school. My children are nurtured and taught well in equal measures.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Mrs Harrison said: “I was extremely happy with how well the inspection team captured the real essence of Wisborough Green Primary School. All staff have the highest aspirations for every learner – individuals really do matter.

“Children are nurtured and cared for, so they develop their own personal talents and abilities to thrive in the future.”

When it came to the progress being made by the children, the inspectors recognised there had been a “significant rise” in reading, writing and maths outcomes, with pupils making “much stronger progress” than in the past.

Mrs Harrison said: “The inspectors recognised the accelerated progress the children have made in English and maths, as a result of a broad and balanced curriculum.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Thinking outside the box and being creative learners, allows everyone to develop the skills needed for life long success.”

Very few areas were highlighted for further improvement – the need to ensure pupils were challenged more to enable them to make better progress, and the need to develop the roles of middle leaders.

Both issues were seen to be already well in hand. Mrs Harrison said: “The inspectors agreed with the next steps identified on our action plan, to continue to challenge all children further so they make even better progress.”

She added: “I am incredibly proud of the Wisborough Green Primary School team who work so hard to make our school the best place to learn.”

To read the report in full, log on to Ofsted's website.

Related topics: