Village School Achieves Ofsted Success After Years of Struggles

A primary school in Shaw-cum-Donnington has successfully turned around its Ofsted rating, moving from “requires improvement” to achieving “good” or “outstanding” in all areas. The latest inspection, conducted in July 2023, has highlighted significant improvements at Shaw-cum-Donnington CE Primary School, particularly in its early years provision, now rated as outstanding.

Ofsted inspectors praised the school for providing young pupils with “an excellent start” to their educational journey. The report noted that children at the school “thrive academically and in their personal growth.” In addition to early years provision, the school’s overall quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all assessed as good.

The previous inspections in October 2022 and January 2019 had marked the school down, with leaders facing challenges in improving the quality of education and management. While some aspects of the school were commended three years ago, including pupil behaviour and early years provision, the leadership received criticism for not meeting standards.

The recent report reflects a successful turnaround under the guidance of school leaders and governors who have navigated a period of change effectively. The Ofsted report stated, “The staff team has embraced the changes. They are deeply committed to delivering high-quality education and developing professionally.” It also acknowledged that targeted training has enhanced teaching practices.

Louis Thatcher, Chair of Governors, expressed pride in the report’s findings. “We are extremely proud of the report, which reflects the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils, and the support of our wonderful community,” he said.

Pupils received commendations for their behaviour both in and out of classrooms, which were described as calm and orderly. Teachers demonstrated strong subject knowledge and effective presentation of information. According to the report, “The school has high expectations of its pupils. Staff are unwavering in their belief that every pupil can and will succeed.”

Lindsay Wakefield, the headteacher, expressed her delight with the latest inspection outcome. She stated, “This report reflects the hard work and commitment of the entire school community. I am delighted that Ofsted recognises that the school provides a positive and nurturing environment.” Wakefield also thanked her team for their continuous efforts to provide the best education for every child.

Despite the positive news from Ofsted, the school faces challenges related to its physical environment. Just last month, a controversy erupted over a planning application from David Wilson Homes to withdraw from a commitment to build a new primary school at Donnington Heights. The Shaw-cum-Donnington Parish Council has formally objected to this move, which seeks to remove the requirement for land provision for a new school.

Parish council chair Margo Payne highlighted the inadequacies of the current school building, stating, “Our wonderful primary school (which has just had a good Ofsted) is having to cope in a completely inadequate building for 21st-century education, and we consider that totally unacceptable.”

The recent Ofsted report marks a significant achievement for Shaw-cum-Donnington CE Primary School, reflecting the dedication of the staff and the support of the community, while also underscoring the need for continued improvements in the school’s infrastructure.