Sheffield primary school praised for "happy, safe and secure" environment by Ofsted
The school was noted for its positive start to education and the report praised the “nurturing” environment and strong focus on communication and language
Sheffield’s Woodlands Primary School has been praised for its "happy, safe and secure" environment and its calm and purposeful atmosphere.
During an inspection last month it was found to be of a “strong standard” in terms of early years and inclusion and the “expected standard” in curriculum and teaching, leadership and governance and personal development and wellbeing.
The report found children at the Gleadless school to be “polite, respectful and well behaved” - noting “positive” relationships throughout.
Early years was noted for its positive start to education and the report praised the “nurturing” environment, strong focus on communication and language, and the way children are prepared for the next stage of learning.
Inspectors wrote that pupils were happy, safe and secure at school, making a confident start, while interactions with children were “deliberate, intentional and targeted”.
They found the “calming” environment and use of skilled adults made a “marked” difference to the most vulnerable pupils.
Inspectors said leaders establish a culture of “high ambition” where the aim is for every pupil to achieve their full potential and have a “deep” understanding of and care for the community they serve.
However two areas marked as needing attention were achievement and attendance and behaviour. The report noted pupils make “less progress” as they move through key stage 2, particularly in writing.
In terms of attendance, inspectors wrote: “Poor attendance limits many pupils’ achievement. Too many pupils arrive late to school. Consequently, they miss the calm start to the day that settles others into school.”
Mark Bennett, Headteacher at Woodlands Primary School, said: "We are pleased that Ofsted recognised the warm, inclusive and supportive environment that makes Woodlands such a special place to learn.
“We are particularly proud that inspectors highlighted the positive behaviour of our children, the strength of our Early Years provision and the commitment shown by staff to supporting every child.
“The report also identifies areas where we want to continue improving, including attendance, writing outcomes and pupils' experiences of different cultures.
“These are areas we had already recognised as priorities, and work is already underway to strengthen provision further. We remain committed to ensuring every child stands shoulder to shoulder with any child nationally."
Neil Miley, CEO of Mercia Learning Trust, said: "This report highlights many of the qualities that make Woodlands such an important part of our trust.
“Inspectors recognised a school where children are happy, safe and secure, where inclusion is at the heart of the school's work, and where staff are deeply committed to supporting every child.
"The findings reflect our trust's belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. We are incredibly proud of the dedication shown by staff, pupils and families, and of the positive difference Woodlands is making in its community."