Ofsted praise transformation to good at Weston Park Primary

Inspectors praised the school's transformation from being rated as 'requires improvement'. It had also been in special measures in the past.

It became a sponsored academy in August 2017 and, under new leadership, began a large-scale school improvement plan with the support of Hamwic Education Trust. Previously the school was rated ‘requires improvement’ and it had also been in special measures.

Last month, Ofsted inspectors saw for themselves that life at Weston Park Primary has improved a great deal since their last visit, citing that the ‘pupils are much happier at school’.

They recognised that pupil behaviour has ‘changed dramatically’ saying ‘pupils behave very well. They know what the rules are, and they follow them’ and they ‘respect their teacher and each other’.

The report also highlights the ‘consistent and high-quality delivery of the curriculum’ and that ‘teachers have absolute clarity about how to build pupils’ knowledge and skills’. It also recognised how ‘pupils learn in a calm and organised way’ and are ‘focused on their learning’ and that they ‘work well with their fellow pupils, showing kindness and care.’

Staff at Weston Park, some who have worked there for 20 years, are overjoyed with the result.

“I could not be prouder of the team,” said Headteacher James Wiltshire. “We agreed that we wanted to offer endless opportunities to children. Three years ago, we chose class names based on famous people who, throughout history, have changed hearts, minds and lives. I believe, alongside our community, governors and wider leadership team provided through Hamwic Education Trust, our staff have done that for our children too.”