Catsfield School’s ‘outstanding’Ofsted makes it best in county

It is a fantastic achievement for the Church of England village school which only 20 months ago was give notice by Ofsted that it had to improve.

Head Sally Clark said the improvement was due to a massive effort by staff, pupils and the whole community.

She said: “It is such a great achievement and we are all delighted.”

The school, which has an intake of 107 pupils, has as it’s mission statement ‘Achieve excellence - inspire dreams’.

Mrs Clark said: “We have really lived up to that. The children are so excited and proud.”

Ofsted inspectors rated the school outstanding in every area and commented: “The children’s learning is full of joy”.

They said there was a real “culture of learning” within the school.

Mrs Clark said: “This is a result of the whole community working together to achieve a shared vision.

“The quality of teaching here is outstanding. Teachers are very dedicated and also run after school clubs.

“The school is not just results driven but inclusive. Every child matters.”

The school held a special day on Monday when members of the community came in to share the celebration. They were given a tour of the school by pupils and were able to view their work.

Pupils also launched eco-friendly balloons, in the school’s house colours, from the playground.

Inspectors said: “The high-quality leadership of the headteacher, her leadership team and the governing body have driven improvements year on year in pupils’ achievement and teaching.

“Much teaching is outstanding and it is never less than good. Teachers have very high expectations and constantly challenge pupils to do their very best.”

They went on to say: “Pupils learn very successfully because their individual needs are met. They have excellent opportunities to work together and apply their learning independently. Pupils say they feel extremely happy and completely safe in school. All pupils thrive as a result of the first-class care they receive.”