School promise that ‘no child to be left behind’
A RURAL school has been rated as good by Ofsted with an outstanding early years provision.
Hollinsclough Church of England Academy was inspected just before the start of the annual summer holidays and inspectors have now published their findings.
The school also offers the option of flexi-schooling. The minimum attendance required for pupils who take up this offer is three core days per week.
In a report lead inspector, Jo Evans, said: “This is a good school.
“The headteacher leads the school with an unwavering determination that all pupils will be successful and confident individuals. “She ensures that there is a constant focus on making learning interesting and purposeful. Staff share this vision, and everyone works together to improve outcomes for all pupils.
“Leaders, including governors, are knowledgeable about the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. The school development plan includes a tight focus on improving pupils’ progress. This is thoroughly analysed to ensure that no pupils are left behind.”
The report said that Governors have an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement and that they make regular visits to the school to find out for themselves about the quality of provision.
The inspector said: “Governors visit classrooms to see lessons taking place, look at pupils’ books and hold meetings with subject leaders.
“The arrangements for safeguarding are effective. Leaders ensure that all members of staff are trained in child protection procedures. Staff know exactly what to do if they have any concerns about a pupil’s safety.
“Child protection records are stored securely. They are thorough and up to date.
“The quality of teaching throughout the school is good. Teachers use their strong subject knowledge to plan lessons that interest and motivate pupils. Tasks are planned in order to build upon pupils’ prior learning because teachers have a good understanding of pupils’ starting points.
“Teachers’ use of verbal feedback is consistent throughout the school and is effective in helping pupils to move on. As a result, pupils enjoy their learning and most of them work hard.”
Behaviour of pupils is also rated as good.
The report said: “Pupils conduct themselves well in lessons and as they move around the school. Pupils usually work hard in lessons and the majority demonstrate a desire to complete the tasks to the best of their ability.
“The school’s work to promote pupils’ personal development and welfare is good.
“Pupils are polite to adults and one another. Pupils say that they would recommend Hollinsclough to everybody and they are welcoming to visitors.
“Pupils are confident that the school is a safe place. They are knowledgeable about the different forms of bullying and say that there is no bullying in the school.
“Pupils say that they can talk to any adult in the school if they are worried about anything.”
Headteacher Janette Mountford-lees said: “I am delighted with the ‘Good with Outstanding’ judgement, and that our flexi-schooling and full-time offers have each now been recognised and endorsed by both Ofsted and SIAMS.
“I am especially proud of the ‘Outstanding’ judgement bestowed on our Early Years, and that Ofsted recognises the continued excellent provision we have for our youngest children.
“Our personalised learning, which ensures ‘that no pupils are left behind’ along with our creative timetabling, delivered through carefully planned topic work and engaging thematic projects have also been praised.
“I’m personally so proud of all our pupils, staff and stakeholders, who have all contributed to our success.
“The atmosphere here is vibrant and positive, and we hope that many more parents will consider Hollinsclough for their children in the future.”