Delight over 'good' Ofsted verdict on Shrewsbury school

The Martin Wilson School, in Castlefields, had been criticised for insufficient pupils' progress and that subject leaders were not involved enough in the quality of teaching.

Inspectors had visited the primary school in 2013 and also found that not all pupils make consistently good progress, particularly in writing. The school was found to be requiring improvement in achievement of pupils, leadership and quality of teaching.

But on a return visit earlier this month the school, which has 231 pupils, was found to have improved dramatically.

The rating this time was good in all areas.

Mary Hughes, lead inspector found the school to be happy and inclusive with an 'oasis of calm and care for pupils.'

She also noted that the pupils thrive in the environment.

She said: "The headteacher, senior leaders and governors have successfully improved the school since the last inspection. They have raised pupils' achievement and the quality of teaching.

"More pupils are making better than than expected progress this year. Disadvantaged pupils and those who have special educational needs achieve well.

"Teachers provide interesting and motivating lessons and pupils learn well as a result. Pupils' behaviour is good. Pupils arrive in school eager to learn and have positive attitudes.

"The school's support for vulnerable pupils and their families is a strength of the school."

She added that the school's board of governors had improved their effectiveness in holding leaders to account for the school's performance.

The school is not yet outstanding as attendance, while rising, is still below average and pupils are sometime given tasks which lack challenge.

Headteacher David Purslow said: "We are absolutely delighted with the findings of the Ofsted report.

"To be rated good across all areas for the first time in 11 years is a real achievement, and I am enormously proud of both the staff and children for all the hard work they have put in.

"We are officially becoming part of Shrewsbury Academies Trust in September and I think we are all looking forward to continuing our improvement over the next year and beyond."

Councillor Alan Mosley, who represents the Castlefields ward, said: "As a governor at Martin Wilson I am delighted with the Ofsted report following their recent inspection.

"The school has been graded as good following some disappointments and difficult times in the past, so congratulations go to the headmaster, the senior team and all staff in their various roles. This is excellent news."