Newbury school celebrates leap to "Good" in Ofsted inspection

Robert Sandilands Primary School and Nursery praised by inspectors

A Newbury primary school has leapt up a grade from requiring improvement to “good” following a recent Ofsted inspection.

Robert Sandilands Primary School and Nursery was visited by the country’s school inspectorate on May 18 and 19, two years after it was first told it needed to improve.

Inspectors welcomed the improvements that had been implemented by the school and praised the leadership, pupil attainment and the quality of teaching.

The report said: “Leaders and governors have successfully tackled the issues identified in the last inspection.

“They have improved the quality of teaching, learning and assessment, resulting in good outcomes for pupils.

“Pupils’ outcomes are good. From starting points which are below those typical for their age, pupils, including those in the early years, make good progress.”

Inspectors noted that disadvantaged pupils were well supported and that achievement for pupils with special educational needs or a disability was good.

The report added: “Pupils behave well. They enjoy attending school. Pupils take on responsibility enthusiastically.

“The school promotes pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development well through a well-planned range of subjects.

“They are well prepared for life in modern Britain.”

Inspectors added that the Speen school was not yet outstanding because pupil progress in mathematics was slower than in other subjects and teachers “do not always sufficiently promote pupils’ thinking and problem-solving skills”.

Responding to the report, headteacher Richard Blofeld said he was “delighted” with the result.

He said: “The inspection report confirms the passion, hard work and commitment of my staff. I would like to thank governors, parents and the local authority for their continued support.

“I would also like to acknowledge the professionalism and quality of the inspection team who ensured that we were fully engaged throughout the process.

“Finally, I wish to congratulate the children who make this school a very special place.

“They truly are the beating heart of this establishment, epitomising our values and beliefs and they make it such an exciting and happy place to work in.”

West Berkshire Council executive member for education Dominic Boeck said: “This is an excellent report which recognises the quality of the education and pastoral care given to pupils at Robert Sandilands.

“Improving educational attainment in the district is a priority for us so I was particularly pleased to hear that good progress is being made by those pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, pupils whose first language is not English and pupils who have special educational needs.

“A report like this is the result of a team effort so I congratulate the pupils, teaching staff and governors for their hard work this year.”