School gets GOOD grade from Ofsted inspectors

“We are very pleased with the results of the Ofsted inspection and delighted that inspectors noted our values”

PUPILS at a village school near Ashbourne are flourishing and succeeding, according to the latest report from Ofsted.

Inspectors rated Ilam Primary School as ‘Good’ in all categories, saying staff at the school ‘set the bar high, and pupils rise to the challenge.’

Inspectors visited on September 12 and 13, speaking to parents, carers, staff and members of the governing body, as well as observing lessons, reviewing documents and carrying out ‘deep dives’ into reading, maths and music.

In their report, Pamela Matty and Adele Mills said: “Pupils flourish in this nurturing, happy school.

“Wherever you go in school, you see acts of kindness.”

“Learning is exciting, and pupils are succeeding. Leaders are developing an ambitious curriculum for all pupils.”

The findings in the report have now been substantiated in a magnificent way as year 6 pupil and Head Boy, Jack Lynch (pictured inset) recently won the national ‘TT Rock Stars’ (times tables) competition answering the most calculations in an hour!

The competition involved around 230,000 primary school aged children across all of the UK.

Headteacher Emily Johnson said “This is the most incredible achievement and a shining example of what hard work and determination can bring.

“Huge congratulations! We’re so proud of you, Jack!”

The school has 50 pupils between the ages of three and 11 and was classed as ‘Good’ for the quality of education provided, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, early year provision and overall effectiveness.

Ilam Primary School was also praised for its effective support for children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities, opportunities for outdoor learning and provision of a wide range of visits, trips and adventure activities.

Miss Johnson said: “We are very pleased with the results of the Ofsted inspection and delighted that inspectors noted the values of caring and respect that are at the heart of our school.”

“I am very proud that the hard work, high expectations and caring nature of