School rate as good by Ofsted

A ‘very special’ primary school has been handed a ‘good’ rating in a glowing inspection.

St Barnabas CE Primary School in Worcester has been awarded a ‘good’ rating by Ofsted following an inspection in April.

Inspectors heaped on the praise for its “enthusiastic and engaged” pupils and “extremely high” expectations, calling the Green Lane school “a very special place.”

The inspector said: “Leaders and teachers have extremely high expectations of what pupils can achieve. Pupils work hard to meet these expectations. Pupils enjoy learning and are keen to do well.

“Respect underpins all relationships in the school. Pupils behave very well in lessons and in social time.

“Teachers work hard to make sure that all pupils have a voice and, as a result, pupils know that their opinions are listened to.

“The school motto of ‘inspire, nurture, achieve’ is modelled by all pupils and adults. Leaders and teachers reinforce the importance of education.

“They say, ‘there is no wasted time’ and this is demonstrated by the fact that from the beginning to the end of the day pupils enjoy positive relationships and rich learning experiences.”

Pupils at the school benefited from an “exceptional” personal development curriculum, according to Ofsted, and the school was “relentless” in making sure every child became a keen reader.

Ofsted said early reading was “expertly” taught by “very well-trained staff” at St Barnabas.

“Leaders meticulously plan the trips, visits and events they offer to make sure that all pupils can experience meaningful activities beyond the classroom,” inspectors said.

“[The] focus on reading permeates the school. Leaders have carefully selected the class books that pupils read. Pupils enjoy reading and speak highly of the many author visits they have.”

Ofsted said safeguarding at the school was “effective” and staff were well-trained and vigilant and acted quickly on any concerns.

“Children get off to a strong start in early years,” a report by Ofsted said. “They are enthusiastic in their learning and, as a result, they do well.

“Pupils keep this love of learning throughout their time in school. Pupils are curious, engaged, and keen to do well.

“Their behaviour in lessons is exemplary.”