Speenhamland School in Newbury celebrates ‘Good’ Ofsted report

Speenhamland School is celebrating and said it is “ecstatic” to have received a ‘Good’ Ofsted report.

The Newbury school was visited by inspectors on April 19 and April 20 this year and was graded Good in all categories.

The school was graded as requiring improvement in December 2019 and said it had been on “a huge journey of improvement” in recent years.

Headteacher, Julie Lewry, said: “We are immensely proud of our Good rating from Ofsted.

“Since I joined Speenhamland as head in September 2021, I have been incredibly impressed with the dedication of the staff.

“Everyone has been fully committed to ensuring our pupils get the very best education.

“Our staff, pupils and parents deserve to have the recognition that we are a Good school.

“I feel very privileged to lead such a wonderful school community.”

During the visit to Speenhamland School, which is part of the Newbury Academy Trust, the inspectors acknowledged the many improvements that had been embedded in the school.

Executive head Charlotte Wilson added: “I am delighted with our Good rating at Speenhamland.

“Everyone has worked tirelessly to make Speenhamland a brilliant place to learn and grow.

“I am proud of our staff, pupils and families, their commitment and hard work.”

In the report, the inspectors acknowledged the inclusiveness and diversity of Speenhamland School.

It said: “Regardless of pupils’ needs, there is a desire to ensure the highest personal achievement. Leaders have high ambitions for every pupil to achieve their best.”

The school was particularly pleased that the Keevill Unit – for physically disabled pupils – was highlighted as a strength.

“The provision for pupils with significant disabilities in the Keevill Unit is very well considered,” the report stated.

“Staff understand each pupil’s needs. Pupils of all abilities and needs work alongside each other productively and respectfully, looking after each other.”

The curriculum Speenhamland offers was scrutinised during the inspection, with early reading coming out as a strength.

“Leaders have prioritised reading,” inspectors noted.

“Staff deliver reading and phonics across all groups and classes consistently well.

“Pupils enjoy reading, including those who find it harder to read.”