School has made an ‘astounding turnaround’ says Ofsted
A PRIMARY school in Medomsley, near Consett is celebrating a huge improvement after receiving a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating, with the report highlighting areas of strength across the school as two were seen as ‘Outstanding’.
Bishop Ian Ramsey Cofe Primary School was previously rated as ‘Inadequate’ in 2018.
The ‘Outstanding’ areas and key strengths of the school noted by Ofsted were Behaviour and Attitudes, and Leadership and Management.
Pupils in the school were praised for their excellent behaviour, positive learning environment, and a strong sense of community.
The new leadership team and the support of the Durham and Newcastle Diocesan Learning Trust were recognised in the Ofsted report as well.
Leaders were praised for their clear vision, ambition, and commitment to staff development, with Ofsted noting that leaders’ expertise is evident across lessons with pupils.
In addition to the ‘Outstanding’ areas, Ofsted has noted strengths are also evident in curriculum, early years provision, pupil achievement and development, SEND, and relationships between pupils and staff.
The report acknowledges the ambitious and well-tailored curriculum that equips pupils with the knowledge and skills they need for future success and, along with the curriculum, the unique culture and community feel of the school was a strength.
Headteacher David Mordue said: “The report is immensely positive and reflects the significant progress we have made as a school in recent years.
“We are thrilled that Ofsted have recognised the strengths of our school and, in their words, the ‘astounding turnaround’ which has taken place since the previous inspection in 2018.
He added: “We are extremely proud of this very positive outcome, which is a testament to the care and commitment of our staff, Academy Council and Trust, the support of our parents and carers, and of course, a celebration of our wonderful children.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure Bishop Ian Ramsey remains such a great place for children to learn.”