Inspector's verdict is good news for primary school

Pegswood Primary School headteacher Andrew Waterfield and some of his pupils who are delighted with their Ofsted report.
Picture by Jane Coltman — Pegswood Primary School headteacher Andrew Waterfield and some of his pupils who are delighted with their Ofsted report. Picture by Jane Coltman

Ofsted inspector Malcolm Kirtley visited Pegswood Primary School on February 28 and he gave it a Good rating.

His letter to headteacher Andrew Waterfield includes the following: ‘You have brought stability and sustained focus over a period of considerable change since the last inspection, including a new leadership team and the major transition from a first school to a primary school.

‘With your deputy headteacher, you have developed a culture of high expectations that is shared by staff and governors.

‘Heightened opportunities for professional development and an enhanced learning environment have enriched learning opportunities for children and contributed to improving outcomes over time.

‘Pupils value the academic and emotional support they receive from their teachers, which enables them to make progress in their learning and develop as young people.

‘Provision for pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities has been enhanced through improved identification of pupils’ needs.

‘You work closely with parents and external agencies to provide social and emotional support that helps to overcome barriers to learning.’

The efforts of the governors were also praised by Mr Kirtley.

Mr Waterfield said: “Everyone involved with our fabulous school needs to be thanked for their hard work and dedication over a number of years.

“In the time since the last inspection, the school has undergone considerable change and improvement and it was pleasing that this was recognised by Ofsted.

“On the day itself the children’s behaviour, manners and the way they conducted themselves was exemplary. In essence, it was a normal day for them and I’m pleased this was highlighted in the report.”

The School Council, along with Years 5 and 6, organised a range of stalls for the Red Nose Day fund-raising fair that raised £818.47 for the Comic Relief charity. It received great support from the community.

There were some competitions too, including who could hula hoop the longest and guessing the number of sweets in the jar.