Shropshire primary school rated good by inspectors
A Shropshire primary school has been rated good by government inspectors who said it presents children with “an excellent start” in life.
St John The Baptist C of E Primary School in Ruyton XI Towns, between Oswestry and Shrewsbury, was also praised for the support it offers children and help it gives them to stay safe.
Ofsted inspectors visited the school on March 5 and 6 this year and rated it good in all aspects except early years provision, which was rated outstanding.
But inspectors did say the school could progress further by improving teaching quality, especially for the more capable maths pupils. The school has 112 pupils from age two to 11.
Jo Evans, lead inspector, said: “The executive headteacher Julie Ball leads the school with commitment and determination to bring about further improvement.
“Leaders know what the school does well and what could be improved. They also understand the unique circumstances that are a result of being a small school in a rural community, and how to make the most of this.
“Leaders make regular checks on the quality of teaching. Their feedback to teachers recognises their strengths and provides clear next steps.
Priority
“In addition, they ensure that pupils’ progress in subjects across the curriculum is a high priority.
“Leaders regularly check on pupils’ progress and ensure that action is taken to support any pupil at risk of falling behind.”
“All staff benefit from professional development opportunities that are linked to wholeschool priorities and the needs of individual members of staff.
“For example, staff have received training to enhance their subject knowledge and to ensure that they have a secure understanding of the expectations of what pupils should achieve by the end of each key stage in all subjects.
“All staff agree that they are happy to work at the school and a high proportion strongly agree that they feel valued and respected.”
Ms Evans added: “The broad and balanced curriculum is a strength of the school. Leaders have designed a curriculum that provides opportunities for pupils to deepen their subject-specific skills and knowledge. It includes a focus on the important skills of reading, writing and mathematics. Pupils are enthusiastic about what they learn. They particularly value the opportunity to learn a musical instruments and to take part in a wide range of sports.”
“Pupils told the lead inspector that the visits they go on support their learning well.
“For example, a residential visit to Liverpool reflected learning in several subject areas because it included a visit to the Titanic Museum, to a synagogue and to both of the city’s cathedrals.
“Pupils in all year groups enjoy learning outdoors.”
