Wisbech primary school celebrates improved Ofsted rating
Townley Primary School has been given a 'good' rating, up from 'requiring improvement' in 2018
Last updated 25th May 2022
A primary school near Wisbech has said it is delighted at its improved Ofsted rating.
Townley Primary School, in Christchurch, had been rated as requiring improvement in 2018, but following an inspection earlier this year, the school is now rated as good.
The inspectors report said pupils enjoy coming to the school and that they do not want to leave at the end of Year Six.
The report said that the children trust the adults at the school, which it said helps them to learn well, adding that they are prepared for their future.
The report said: “Pupils are respectful and caring towards their friends. Everyone’s differences are celebrated and valued.
“Pupils learn about the different needs of others and show empathy from these experiences.
“Pupils behave well in lessons and on the playground. If there are instances when pupils need reminding about their behaviour, they quickly settle back to their work or harmonious play.
“Pupils say that they feel safe in school. Pupils say that bullying used to happen a long time ago, but not now. Pupils know who they can talk to if they need help or have any worries.
“Parents are particularly complimentary about the way staff support them in their role as parents. For example, staff supported them during the pandemic and the period of home learning and when settling pupils back into school.
“The nurturing ethos is the reason why many parents choose to travel to take their child to Townley School.”
Headteacher Maria-Anna Higgins said she cried with happiness when she read the opening lines of the report that said children enjoyed the school so much that they did not want to leave.
She said: “I’m absolutely delighted. I actually cried when I got the report and saw the opening line, we just cannot ask for better than that, I’m so thrilled.
“For me, that opening paragraph of the report sums up everything we have been trying to achieve as a school.
“I’m so proud of our school. Our children are lovely, they are hardworking, they care about each other, they look after each other, they’re fantastic.
“Every member of staff and the governors are driven by the children to do the very best they can to support every child and their family.
“The school has benefited enormously from the support of the Opportunity Area, who have funded training for staff, resources and experiences for the children.
“Most recently they have funded an art project with parents and children, who are working with a local artist to produce a timeline on our school hall.
“Our local authority and MP Stephen Barclay has also supported us, and we couldn’t do it without the continued support of our community, who are always there supporting us, keeping us at the heart of their community.”
Looking ahead, Mrs Higgins said they are working to introduce Forest Schools across the whole school.
Mrs Higgins added that herself and staff members are also now working with other schools to share with them what has been working well.