Ofsted praises Aquila primary school's 'palpable sense of ambition'

 

School inspectors have praised an Aquila primary school for its rapid improvement and “highly ambitious” curriculum.

In their report, published this month, Ofsted inspectors rated Charing Church of England Primary School in Ashford as ‘Strong’ in six of seven areas and ‘Expected’ in just one.

Inspectors said leaders have "an almost palpable sense of ambition for every pupil". They found that all pupils, including those with multiple barriers to learning, achieve very well and are "very well prepared for their next steps".

The report highlights that pupils become fluent and confident readers, with the school prioritising reading from the early years. In the most recent national tests, 93% of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics combined - well above the national average of 62%.

Nearly half of pupils at Charing are eligible for free school meals - well above the national average of 26%. Yet 88% of those pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics, against a national average of 47%.

Inspectors also praised the school's early years provision, noting that leaders "ensure that children have a very successful start to their education". They described the early years as a “purposeful and happy environment”.

The report said that staff have very high expectations of pupils’ behaviour and that this helps pupils to “behave very well”.

The only area to receive an expected standard rating was attendance. Inspectors acknowledged the school's high levels of pupil mobility, with many children joining mid-year, and noted that attendance has improved steadily. They asked leaders to maintain the work already under way to raise it further.

Tom Bird, the school’s Headteacher, said: "We set high expectations for every pupil from the moment they arrive, whatever their background or starting point. To see that reflected in what Ofsted found - and in our results - is enormously pleasing. The real credit belongs to our staff, who work every day to make this a welcoming and wonderful community where every child succeeds."

Annie Wiles, Chief Executive Officer of Aquila, the Diocese of Canterbury Academies Trust, said: "These findings are testament to Tom and his team's commitment to the pupils and community they serve. The rapid improvement Charing has made is something the whole Aquila family is proud of."

For the full Ofsted report click HERE.