BROCKS HILL PRIMARY IS AN ‘OUTSTANDING’ SCHOOL

Following a thorough two-day inspection of the school – and after speaking to staff, pupils, parents and governors – Brocks Hill was recognised to be an ‘Outstanding’ school, the highest-ranking Ofsted can award. 

The school was last graded by Ofsted in 2009, when it was also judged to be ‘Outstanding.’ Since then, the school has been re-categorised as an academy; it then ‘re-opened’ in July 2013, before joining the Lionheart Educational Trust in November 2019. 

The inspectors were quick to praise the quality of education received by all pupils, highlighting the strength of the curriculum and the multitude of opportunities there are for children to enjoy personal development.  

The curriculum is carefully structured by a team of passionate staff who ensure that learning flows from lesson to lesson; allowing the children to recap on what was taught previously and then build on those foundations in subsequent lessons. This allows pupils to make excellent progress.  

Ofsted were also complimentary of behaviour within the school, describing it as both “exemplary” and “impeccable.” 

In April, the school’s library was relocated and refurbished, providing children with a vibrant and engaging setting in which to read. 

Inspectors were quick to highlight this setting, noting: “The school’s newly-refurbished library is a special place where pupils want to spend time.” 

It has also allowed the school to further promote the enjoyment and importance of reading. 

“Staff are passionate about books and the power of reading,” the report explained, “[and] their love of reading has certainly rubbed off on pupils. 

“They look forward to weekly ‘Book Club’ sessions where they share what they are reading and hear recommendations from others.” 

Finally, inspectors also highlighted the school’s SEND provision, observing that “pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) achieve very well.” 

Head of School, Cathryn Shilling and Executive Principal, Sally Wicken said: “We are delighted that our amazing school has been graded ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in all judgement areas.  

“Our pupils and staff are incredibly proud that the work we do, at all levels, has been praised by Ofsted.  

“We are thrilled to have the inspection team affirm how special our school is and recognise the fantastic work of our hard-working staff.  

“Our thanks go to all families for their continued support; Brocks Hill's celebration is just as much theirs, as it is ours." 

To read the report in full, click here.