School told it must improve

A WARRINGTON primary school has been given notice to improve after Ofsted inspectors found its overall effectiveness and the achievement of its pupils were inadequate.
Woolston Primary School performs significantly less well than might reasonably be expected – particularly in respect of achievements in English.
Ofsted says the recently appointed headteacher, staff and governors are resolutely focused on improvement and the school is committed to raising standards.
But the governing body does not challenge the school’s performance rigorously enough.
Borough council chiefs say the school is confident about raising standards and a programme of improvements is already well underway.
Inspectors visited the school last month, observing 18 lessons or part lessons, taught by 11 teachers.
They saw some good teaching, but also inconsistencies. Pupils achievements in English in Years 2-6 were inadequate.
In the reception year, children’s progress was, broadly, at expected levels. They made satisfactory progress in the Early Years Foundation Stage.
But in Key Stages 1 and 2 progress varied considerable, reflecting inconsistencies in the quality of teaching – particularly in English.
The more able pupils did not make the progress they were capable of. By the end of Year 2, the proportion of pupils attaining higher level 3 was below average and by Year 6, reading and writing was below average.
But pupils enjoyed school, were well behaved and had above average attendance. rates.
Head teacher Nick Toyne said: “We accept the findings of the report and we remain focused on continuing to make positive changes. I can assure parents that many of the areas that are highlighted for improvement had already been identified and were being addressed. The Ofsted team judged that there had not been enough time for the changes to have a significant impact. Since the inspection we have also implemented other Ofsted recommendations.
“The school is also being supported by the local authority during this time.
“As a school we are determined to provide a high quality education in all subject areas for all pupils. We are committed to achieving this goal in a way that is both rapid and sustainable.”
Chairman of governors Cath Shipton said: “The school has our full support and we are confident that by working with staff, parents and pupils we can make the improvements necessary to take our school forward putting our pupils at the heart of everything we do.”