Broomhaugh First School has been graded outstanding – the highest possible rating – for its early years education.
Rating the school “good” overall, Ofsted inspectors judged the Riding Mill school to be “outstanding” in the two of four assessment areas – early years provision and personal development of pupils.
In a newly-published report inspectors wrote: “Broomhaugh First School is nurturing and inviting.... lessons bring learning to life for pupils... Pupils are well prepared for life locally and beyond (and) the environment develops children’s curiosity and independence”.
Inspectors also concluded:
“Pupils are happy and safe... the emotional well-being of pupils is a priority”.
“Pupils achieve well. The school has introduced an ambitious and broad curriculum. There are high expectations for all pupils”.
“Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive the tailored support they need in lessons. They achieve well.”
“Lessons and classroom discussions raise pupils’ aspirations”.
“There is a strong reading culture in school. Pupils learn to read quickly and confidently”.
“There are clear expectations of pupils’ behaviour. Pupils behave well.”
“The school develops pupils’ character and cultural capital exceptionally well. Pupils have a firm understanding of justice and equality. They are passionate about making the world a better place.”
“Children speak to adults with a high level of respect and kindness”.
“Pupils are well prepared for the transition to middle school.”
The school was rated “good” for Education and Learning and Leadership – the second highest rating.
Executive Head Teacher Suzanne Hart said: “As our motto says, staff and governors want Broomhaugh to be a magical school which gives children the best possible start in life and sets them up emotionally and educationally to make a difference and be the best they can be. We are over the moon that Ofsted inspectors believe we are achieving that ambition.
“The value of these inspections is in highlighting what we need to do to get to outstanding – which is our next goal. To be this close already is a major achievement, and we couldn’t have done without the support of our parents and wider school community – to whom I’d like to express my thanks.
“On a personal level, it means the world to me that the inspectors immediately recognised the respect and kindness our children show every day and the effort we make to develop their character and awareness of the world around them – and beyond.”
Co-chairs of the governing body, Elisabeth Charman and Gayle Baty, are equally as delighted. Elisabeth comments: "The outcome of the Ofsted inspection confirms what we knew about Broomhaugh being an excellent school, giving children the best possible start to their education. This takes hard work by a lot of people and we are proud to thank all staff, governors, parents and the children for working to make Broomhaugh thrive"