The latest school to be assessed by Ofsted’s inspectors has been rated ‘Good’ in all areas.
Vale Primary was inspected in March where it was given the second highest rating possible for the ‘Quality for Education’ it provides, the ‘Behaviour and Attitudes’ and ‘Personal Development and Welfare’ of pupils, and the ‘Leadership and Management’ and ‘Early Years Provision’ of the school.
The inspectors said that the school’s 409 pupils “are motivated and eager to learn”, and are “happy and safe”.
They are taught an “ambitious, coherent and interesting” curriculum and the school “meets the needs of all pupils, with staff swiftly identifying pupils with Additional Learning Needs, including developing plans for individualised support matching specific needs, and pupils with ALN progressing through the curriculum successfully and participating fully in school life”.
Vale Primary was praised for the emphasis it places on communication and language development which are “at the heart of the curriculum” while the school also “has a sharp focus on reading and precise support in place for pupils who fall behind”.
Staff ensure the pupils “have a wealth of opportunities to develop their talents and interests, and that pupils know that their voices are heard and valued, which builds their self-esteem and sense of belonging”.
Vale Primary also “develops responsibility in its pupils through leadership opportunities”.
Where improvements are necessary, the Ofsted inspectors recommended that the school needs to “ensure that curriculum content supports pupils to build their knowledge incrementally over time” and that staff should “ensure that assessment accurately highlights gaps in pupils’ understanding, so that these can be remedied”.
Lauren Eyton-Jones, Headteacher of Vale Primary School, said she is pleased with the outcome of the inspection, and the areas for improvement are already being focused on.
“We are thrilled with the outcome of our latest Ofsted inspection,” she said.
“There were no surprises, and this report validates the hard work and dedication of the staff, pupils and all the wider Vale Primary School community. Our focus on building trust, transparency and inclusive support for all our learners, especially those who need additional support, has been a real team effort. It’s wonderful to see Ofsted acknowledge that our pupils are happy, safe and thriving.
“Importantly, the areas identified for further development are already priorities within our school improvement plan, and we will continue to build on this work with the same determination and collective effort.”
Andrew Ogier, Chair of the Vale Primary School Board, praised Ms Eyton-Jones and the school’s wider leadership team, saying they should feel very proud of the inspection report.
“The inspection report reflects the strong foundations that have been laid by Lauren, her leadership team and all the staff. It’s a testament to their hard work, collaboration and commitment to pupils’ wellbeing and learning. The school should be congratulated for its progress since the last inspection, especially in the ALN provision, and for creating an environment where every child feels safe, supported and able to succeed.”
Nick Hynes, Director of Education, said an inspection report highlight for him was the recognition on the pupils’ literacy work.
“Our huge congratulations to Lauren and her team for such a superb inspection outcome. With a mostly new leadership team in place in the last 18 months, this is testament to the effort made by all staff at Vale Primary School. The school’s progress in ALN provision and the focus on the wellbeing, happiness and ambition for all its pupils really shines through, and I was particularly pleased to see them recognised for the sharp focus they place on reading.”