School gives its pupils an “outstanding start”

CHILDREN get off to an “outstanding start” to their school lives at Warrington’s Birchwood CE Primary School – and that’s according to Ofsted.
Huge transformations have taken the school from “inadequate” to “good”, with “outstanding provision for early years” the education watchdog says in its latest assessment.
Senior leaders at the school focus relentlessly on improving the quality of teaching and have ensured achievement has improved significantly since the previous inspection.
Children flourish and their confidence and skills soar in the early years as a result of outstanding leadership and teaching.
Inspectors were particularly impressed with the “dynamic leadership” of the headteacher which has brought cohesiveness to the school community’.
The report recognises staff for being “excellent role models who are not prepared to accept second best and praises them for “lessons that engage, enthuse and challenge pupils”. Pupils feel safe and the school prepares them well to avoid danger, including on the internet.
Recommendations to improve further include continuing to plan work for the most able pupils, creating more opportunities to develop writing skills and to manage actions taken to reduce pupil absence.
Governors are acknowledged for taking decisive actions that reflect their passion and determination to make a positive difference for the pupils in the school.”
Headteacher Dawn Rapson said: “We really are thrilled with this report as it showcases just how fabulous our school is, the improvements we have made and how hard everyone is working. This of course includes the support that we receive from all of our parents and carers, it really does make a huge difference.”
Cllr Jean Carter, lead member for children’s services at Warrington Borough Council, said: “I am very pleased that Birchwood CE has been recognised by Ofsted for the many improvements and achievements that have been made. This is testament to the strong leadership, support from the council and the relentless drive and determination of the staff.
“Being recognised for giving children the best start in life is a huge accolade and we are all very proud of the pupils and their families.”
The report can be read in full at
http://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports/find-inspection-report/provider/ELS/111304