Ofsted report finds that ‘pupils thrive’ at local school

PUPILS and teachers at Critchill School have been celebrating their recent Ofsted inspection after the school was graded ‘good’, with the inspector saying that there is enough evidence to suggest that the school could be judged ‘outstanding’ if a following graded inspection were to be conducted. 

Once schools are graded as ‘good’ by Ofsted, an ungraded inspection is carried out once every four years to see if it remains ‘good’ – if evidence is found that a school could receive a higher or lower grade the next inspection will be graded.

Executive head teacher, Sophie Addison said, “I am delighted that the hard work undertaken by the pupils and staff at Critchill has been recognised. The report itself is very positive and highlights the many elements of effective provision at the school. It is also worth noting that the inspectors could not identify any areas for improvement.

“That said, all school staff are committed to further improving the school and I am looking forward to working with them on key priorities over the coming year.”

The report reads, “The executive headteacher and her staff have high expectations for pupils’ learning and achievements. Staff expertly support pupils to communicate effectively. They skilfully adapt what happens in the classroom so that all pupils can progress well through the curriculum.

“As a result, pupils thrive. They gain confidence, learn new skills and develop independence. Pupils enjoy coming to this welcoming, happy school.”

Andrew Jones, chair of governors said, “I am really pleased to see that the independent external evaluation by OFSTED has recognised the great work the staff at Critchill School do. They deliver education tailored to each individual’s needs and capabilities, to prepare our young people to lead rewarding and happy lives. We’re looking forward to their next visit when we can realistically expect formal confirmation that Critchill School is an outstanding school.”

Critchill School says it would like to thank all those involved in the inspection itself, especially the pupils for their conduct and enthusiasm at school which was clearly evidenced during the inspection, also to the parents and carers, governors and trust colleagues who have supported the school.

Critchill School will now receive a new graded inspection which usually takes place within one to two years of the date of the ungraded inspection.

The report was published on Wednesday 20th September and can now be viewed online at www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofsted