Two reports hail school as ‘outstanding’ (From Cotswold Journal)

Two reports hail school as ‘outstanding’

11:00am Saturday 19th January 2013 in News

A PRIMARY school near Shipston is celebrating after achieving two outstanding inspections.

During the past month, Ilmington Primary School has had two educational inspections, one by Ofsted and the other by the Church of England through SIAS – Statutory Inspection of Anglican Schools. Both inspections called the school ‘outstanding’ in their reports.

The school, which was previously rated ‘good’ in May 2008, was said to develop “pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural awareness exceptionally well”.

Peter Kerr, lead inspector, said: “Pupils make exceptionally rapid progress” and “teaching is of a consistently high standard, particularly in reading, writing and mathematics, where pupils excel.”

It also praised the headteacher, Sally Naish, who “provides very clear, strong leadership” and “involves all other staff closely in a relentless quest to continue raising standards.”

Meanwhile, a SIAS review carried out on behalf of Coventry Diocese to examine the religious education, spiritual understanding, collective worship and leadership of the school found it to be ‘outstanding’ in every category.

In his report, the inspector said: “Clearly communicated Christian values shine out in the daily life of the school and are reflected in the high quality relationships and excellent learning and achievement.

“The outstanding and enabling vision of the headteacher, supported by the highly dedicated staff, working together with governors and parents, has created an inclusive and distinctive church school where every child is known as an individual, and is valued and special.”

Headteacher Sally Naish said: “Ilmington School has always been special and we knew our standards had been continually improving.

“These two reports now prove how good the school is.

Credit must go to all the staff, governors, parents and especially the children for their hard work and support that has enabled this achievement.

“Our task now is to work hard at maintaining our high standards.”