Children at Horsendale Primary School consistently meet the high expectations set for them says Ofsted

Children at Horsendale Primary School consistently meet the high expectations set for them says Ofsted

Parents and carers told inspectors the school is ‘fantastic’ and that their children love going to school

Horsendale Primary School in Nuthall is celebrating their Ofsted outcome following a visit which took place in July.  The school has been rated good or outstanding in all areas inspected.

The report said, ‘Horsendale Primary School has high expectations of what pupils can achieve and how they should behave. Pupils meet these expectations consistently well. The school is caring and welcoming. Pupils enjoy learning here. They said that their teachers are kind and supportive. Parents and carers hold the school in high regard. A typical comment from parents is that the school is ‘fantastic’ and that their children love going to school.’

Amanda Smalley is Head teacher at Horsendale Primary School which is based on Assarts Road in Nuthall and she said, “We are delighted with the result and that so much of the warmth and happiness of our lovely school is reflected in the report. Children are at the centre of every decision we make at Horsendale, and the staff team work very hard to create the best environment possible for our pupils. We know that happy and supported children are also the best learners!

“During the inspection our children were amazing,” said Amanda. “I would like to thank the staff for their commitment to providing the best for our children and to our fantastically supportive families at Horsendale. It is their partnership with school staff that will give our wonderful children the best start possible in their education.”

During the visit inspectors found the school’s curriculum was ‘broad and highly ambitious’ and that teachers have good subject knowledge. It goes on to say, ‘The school ensures that all pupils develop the knowledge and skills they need to become fluent readers. Staff deliver phonics lessons exceptionally well.’

Children demonstrated understanding of how to stay physically and mentally healthy and how to stay safe, including online. The school was found to be calm and orderly, and that pupils ‘…behave exceptionally well.’

‘In lessons,’ says the report, ‘teachers provide many opportunities for pupils to discuss their ideas with each other. Pupils do this very well and listen respectfully. They have an age-appropriate understanding of different religions and cultures. They know to treat others with respect. They are exceptionally well-prepared for their next steps.’

The report highlights the many high-quality opportunities available for children to develop their interests at the school, including football, basketball, cricket, fencing and ‘maths’ club.

Inspectors said Horsendale pupils have ‘…excellent attitudes to learning’ and that ‘Pupils quickly gain the knowledge and skills to become confident readers. Through regular story times and reading lessons, pupils develop a love of reading. Children in the Reception Year get off to a great start in their education. They benefit from a meticulously planned curriculum that precisely matches their needs.’

The school’s safeguarding is effective, and Horsendale staff told inspectors they are proud to work at the school. The school’s trust, The Flying High Partnership is praised for providing ‘very effective support’ and those responsible for governance are said to know the school well, challenging and supporting its leaders effectively.