Staff and pupils at Queensmead Primary Academy are delighted that it has once again been rated as a ‘Good’ school by Ofsted. The recent inspection report highlights the school’s unwavering commitment to providing a positive, ambitious, and inclusive learning environment where pupils thrive both academically and personally.
“Pupils are safe at this welcoming school”, the report begins, setting the tone for the positive findings throughout. The inspector praised the school for being a place where children can immerse themselves in learning from an early age, showcasing curiosity and independence.
The Ofsted report commends the exemplary behaviour and positive attitudes towards learning exhibited by Queensmead’s pupils. “Pupils’ behaviour and their attitudes to learning are excellent”, the report notes. “They are proud of the respectful relationships they have towards each other.” A pupil encapsulated this ethos, stating, “We are respectful of difference. We have all different people here and we respect each other.” The inspector also highlighted how pupils look after each other’s well-being, ensuring that everyone has a friend in the playground, fostering a sense of unity and extended family within the school.
“The school’s ambitions for all pupils to achieve their very best shines out of this school in every direction,” the inspector observed, noting the high-quality displays of creative and academic achievements throughout the school. Pupils expressed their enjoyment of learning in various subjects, reflecting the vibrant and supportive educational environment.
Reading is a cornerstone of Queensmead’s curriculum, with the school giving it high priority and meticulous attention. “Pupils enjoy reading. They benefit from reading a range of books linked to the curriculum, as well as from an inspiring library,” the report highlights. Furthermore, the school’s dedication to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) was also recognised. “Lessons are well adapted to ensure that pupils get help linked precisely to their needs,” said the inspectors.
Queensmead provides extensive and innovative opportunities for pupils to develop leadership skills, participate in a variety of clubs, and engage in educational visits. The school’s unique “purple pound economy” scheme was particularly noted for its significant contribution to the development of pupils’ life skills.
Liz Latham, Principal of Queensmead Primary Academy, expressed her pride in the school’s achievements: “We are thrilled with the Ofsted report, which is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, pupils, and community. Our commitment to fostering a nurturing and ambitious environment for every child remains steadfast and we are excited to continue building on our successes.”
Wayne Norrie, CEO of Greenwood Academies Trust, congratulated Liz, and her team at Queensmead, saying: “Huge congratulations to Liz and her amazing team at Queensmead for this fantastic Ofsted report. I also want to thank our trust’s primary education team for their support and guidance. This collaborative effort truly shows how we can deliver a strong strategy while allowing each academy to maintain its unique identity, which is very important to us. Queensmead is a brilliant example of our approach in action and it’s wonderful to see that pupils are thriving.”