School ‘reaches’ for success with Ofsted report

Hayesdown First School in Frome is celebrating their recent ‘Good’ judgement following an Ofsted inspection on 5th December 2018.  

The school ‘s new headteacher, Julia Battersby, had only taken up her post in September but was delighted to be able to share the school’s developments and success with the Ofsted inspector. 

She said “It was a bit of a surprise to have our inspection within my first term at the school, however I was confident that the wonderful work that the children and staff do would shine through. I am particularly pleased that our pupils’ positive behaviour and attitudes were noted during the inspection. We are pleased to continue to be a good school and will now strive to develop and further improve the education we offer our pupils.” 

The Ofsted report commented very positively on pupils’ attitudes and behaviour, stating that “pupils are courteous, behave well and are friendly.” The school was recognised as being a calm place for learning and offering a good quality of education. Parents wholeheartedly stated that their children feel safe in school and that the vision for the school is clear and forward thinking.

At the start of a new chapter, the school has launched its new school ‘Reach’ values. The headteacher said, “The children, staff, parents and governors have all developed our values and they truly reflect what we want for all our children at Hayesdown First School. 

“The values are encapsulated in an eye-catching image and an easy to remember phrase “REACH”, which stands for children being Responsible, Enthusiastic, Ambitious, Confident, Happy and Healthy.” 

George, a member of the school council said “We had an assembly to launch our values and we had coloured rubber gloves to wear and hold up the letters that spell REACH – it was really good fun.” 

Lydia from Year 4 agreed, saying, “Our values help us enjoy school and be good learners and friends, they are what makes our school special.”