Robinswood Primary achieves ‘Good’ Ofsted rating

Ofsted highlighted significant improvements made at Robinswood Primary in Gloucester, awarding it a rating of ‘Good.’

The school, which is part of the newly renamed Multi Academy Trust, Phoenix Learning Alliance, was previously placed in ‘Special Measures’ when it was inspected in November 2019.

At its most recent visit on 22 and 23 November 2022, Ofsted recognised the many improvements the school has made and updated its judgement to ‘Good’ in overall effectiveness and all key areas.

During the visit, Ofsted reviewed the school’s strengths and areas of development, talking to pupils, staff, and trustees. They conducted detailed reviews of early reading, English, mathematics, computing, and physical education, sampling lessons and speaking to teachers and pupils about their learning.

Inspectors found that pupils enjoy school, attend regularly and are safe. They know and understand the school code ‘Be kind, be honest, be responsible, be respectful.’ Ofsted highlighted this as the bedrock of the expectations that staff have, which underpins the school’s approach to managing behaviour.

Ofsted commended school leaders and their relentless desire to improve the lives of pupils through a purposeful education. Noting that their expectations are high and everyone, staff, and pupils alike, contributes to them. The inspection found that leaders’ actions, and role modelling of behaviours, have captured the right responses. Inspectors said that the school is harmonious, and everyone is striving to provide, or receive, a better education.

The school’s ambitious curriculum was praised, it has a focus on core subjects, which has resulted in pupils having a deeper understanding of mathematics and science.

Inspectors also acknowledged pupils’ personal development as a vital part of the school’s work, highlighting pastoral support for pupils and families as a particular strength. They said pupils flourish in their understanding of the world around them, learning about healthy eating and the importance of physical and mental well-being.

Head of School, Alison Walker said: “I am delighted with the outcome of the inspection and that the hard work and dedication of our wonderful pupils and staff, with support from parents, governors and trustees, has been recognised by Ofsted.

“We want to make sure that all our pupils flourish and receive the best possible education. I am pleased Ofsted can see how the whole school community is working together to achieve this and the positive impact of our school code which we all abide by.

“Being awarded ‘Good’ across all key areas is a fantastic result and I look forward to building upon the progress we have made.”

Kim Hoodless, CEO of the Phoenix Learning Alliance, said: “This is a great achievement, particularly given the challenges of COVID over the last couple of years and it is testament to the hard work of the leadership team and all school staff.

“They have worked relentlessly to move things forward and it’s wonderful to see their hard work, and our amazing pupils, being recognised by Ofsted.”

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk