OFSTED and performance information

We are delighted to share the Ofsted report from our inspection May 25. We think that the report recognises the whole community, which we call our ‘Newsham Family’, rather than just the successes of teaching staff. As Headteacher, my proudest moment of the inspection was when the Lead Inspector said that if there was an Ofsted judgement for love and care, this school would be ‘exemplary’.

Judgements in each of the categories were; The quality of education: Good; Behaviour and attitudes: Good; Personal development: Good; Leadership and management: Good; Early years provision: Good. Inspectors noted that judgements would be higher if there had been more time for the new leadership structure show the evident improvements, they were seeing impacting on school data, and said, ‘Changes to curriculum organisation and oversight have resulted in pupils’ learning experiences improving significantly.’

Inspectors felt we create a warm, supportive environment that parents describe as having a “positive family feel.”Pupils are cared for by staff who are “exemplary role models” and who build strong, respectful relationships with children. This caring atmosphere helps pupils feel safe, listened to, and confident to seek help when needed. ‘Pupils are well behaved and feel safe’. They noted that one of the school’s greatest strengths is the inclusive and nurturing culture that supports every child to thrive both emotionally and academically.

Inspectors also said that the school is “ambitious for every pupil” and is making great strides in ensuring that all children succeed, particularly in reading, writing, maths and science. The commitment to reading is especially strong – from the very start of Reception, children are taught by “staff with expert knowledge” using a high-quality phonics programme.

We are delighted that the team noted that Newsham is especially proud of its work with pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), with staff offering “individualised support” and adapting lessons so that all children can succeed. This is particularly evident in the school’s resource base, where pupils with the highest level of need “are included in all aspects of school life.” Parents can also take confidence in the school’s strong pastoral care, which helps pupils manage their emotions and develop healthy habits.

Additionally, they felt the school is committed to developing the whole child – emotionally, socially, and academically. The wider community are supported by the Lighthouse Community Hub. Pupils enjoy a wide range of activities, including outdoor play and enrichment opportunities, and they learn how to stay safe both online and in their community. As one of the report’s key messages states, “staff are proud to work in the school,” and it’s clear this pride shines through in the quality of care and education pupils receive every day.

The full report is attached and can now be read on our website. If anybody can not access the report, we would be delighted to print a copy for you. 

Please see links to our latest Ofsted reports at the bottom of this page. There is also some useful information here from the Ofsted Dashboard.

A significant amount of performance information is gathered about pupils at Newsham.

The most important information is that which is gathered by the teacher everyday. This is gathered in many different ways, then teachers use this information to plan the next steps of learning for the children they are working with.

Information is also gathered across the school and then carefully analysed. Leaders are using this data to identify areas of best practice, training and resource needs and pupils who require different support. Ultimately this ensures Newsham pupils are achieving the very best that they can.

National Tests are also used to analyse performance. These tests include the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check, Year 2 SATs and Year 6 SATs. We are keen to share information about the school’s performance. Some of the links in this section will give you insight into the current picture.

If parents or carers would like to discuss any issues relating to this, Mr Jones would be very keen to meet with you.