There was much celebration at Avonwood Primary School this week after the academy was rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in all five inspection categories following its first full inspection since it opened ten years ago.
The inspectors’ glowing report is full of praise for the school which they describe as “an exceptional place to learn”. According to the report, pupils experience “the magic of primary school” and “blossom” at Avonwood Primary. Indeed, inspectors found that pupils “excel” and “make excellent progress” at the academy which, as they note, is because “the school has the highest ambition for every pupil to achieve well”. The school is said to be inclusive too, with all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), said to be supported to “achieve highly”.
Inspectors were also hugely impressed by pupils’ excellent attitudes, particularly their enthusiasm towards school. Pleasingly, they note that pupils are “excited to come to school and do not want to miss out”, whilst behaviour is described as “exemplary”. Similarly, relationships between staff and pupils are said to be “delightful”, with inspectors observing that staff have created a culture which enables pupils to develop “a strong sense of altruism” and to be kind and “mature”.
Whilst pupils are said to benefit from the strength of the academic curriculum, described as “skillfully designed”, inspectors found that pupils equally benefit from a wide range of “rich and diverse experiences” which support their character development. These include meaningful leadership opportunities, such as acting as friendship ambassadors, as well as a plethora of exciting clubs which spark pupils’ talents and interests.
Ofsted also notes that the school welcomes a variety of visitors, including scientists and authors, who enrich pupils’ understanding of the world and form part of the school’s mission to “inspire wonder”.
Chris Jackson, Head Teacher of Avonwood Primary School, said:
“All of us at Avonwood Primary School are thrilled that Ofsted has recognised what an aspirational, friendly and community-minded school we are, as well as the exceptional education we offer. I am particularly delighted that they saw that our pupils are excited to come to school and that, alongside their love of learning, they demonstrate such kindness, maturity and care for others.
“As we approach our ten-year anniversary of the school’s opening, this is a significant milestone which the entire school community can feel immensely pleased with. We are so proud to be rated ‘Outstanding’, an outcome which is testament to our wonderful staff, pupils and families. I would like to thank each and every one of them for their important contributions to the life of our school and for making Avonwood such a vibrant and inspirational place to learn.”
Darran Ellison-Lee, Director of Primary Education at United Learning, said:
“This is a truly exceptional report which reflects what a brilliant and aspirational school Avonwood Primary is. The inspectors’ report makes clear what everyone at the school already knows – that Avonwood Primary School is a fantastic place to learn where pupils thrive, both across the curriculum and in their personal development.”