Tamworth primary school celebrates ‘extremely positive’ Ofsted report

The headteacher of Coton Green Primary School has spoken of his pride after an extremely positive Ofsted Report saw the school achieve a rating of Good across all five categories.

Staff and leaders at the Tamworth school, which is part of the respected Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), have worked tirelessly to revamp the school’s curriculum and improve learning outcomes for all pupils.

Their efforts were recognised by the Inspectors, who visited on the 24 and 25 September.

The report states: “There have been significant changes to the curriculum in recent years. These have focused on making sure that learning builds progressively on what pupils know. These changes have had a positive impact on pupils’ enjoyment of learning and are improving outcomes.”

Headteacher Richard Osborne said: “The ongoing improvements to our curriculum, particularly in reading and writing, have had a really positive impact, with more pupils meeting expected standards.

“While we are pleased with this progress, and glad to see it recognised by Ofsted, we know there is still work to be done – particularly in mathematics – and we are already taking action to improve these areas.”

Safeguarding measures were also assessed as being effective, with Mr Osborne commenting: “We are pleased that the Report confirms our robust procedures in place keep our pupils safe.”

The Report specifically highlighted the staff’s highly effective commitment to ensuring pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are given the guidance and support required for them to make the most of the school’s curriculum.

The Inspectors noted that pupils with additional support needs are “identified early” and that the school works alongside parents, carers and outside agencies to provide “meaningful support to remove barriers to learning.”

Staff were not the only members of the school community to receive praise from the Inspectors – the dedication and good behaviour of the school’s pupils was also highly commended.

Inspectors said that the pupils “control their emotions, sustain concentration, and play with each other in a kind way”, and “demonstrate positive attitudes toward their learning.”

Mr Osborne said: “The report emphasised how our pupils take pride in their work and are enthusiastic about exploring and learning from their mistakes.

“We’re really proud of our pupils and how they continue to learn and adapt to the school’s changing curriculum.”

The Inspectors were also impressed at the range of extracurricular opportunities offered at Coton Green for the pupils’ wider development. The school’s participation in the Children’s University scheme was praised for “raising pupils’ future aspirations”, and the Report noted that “the curriculum is enriched by trips” to places relevant to the pupils’ study, which “brings their learning to life.”

The overriding theme of the report was the friendly and nurturing environment fostered by the school.