Leigh School already deemed 'Good' by Ofsted!!!!!

September 11, 2014 by Joanna Harrison

Leigh North Street Junior School has been judged ‘Good’ by Ofsted inspectors, only fourteen months after it received an ‘Inadequate’ judgement.

The remarkable improvement is very rare nationally and has been revealed in a glowing Ofsted inspection report that was released to the school and parents yesterday (Thursday 11th September).

The report is full of praise for the interim executive board (IEB), that was installed by the Council following the inadequate verdict in June 2013.

It also commends the work of the Executive Headteacher and staff and says that governance is outstanding, pupil achievement has improved significantly and staff work consistently well together.

In its findings, Ofsted also says:
- The IEB and Executive Headteacher have improved the quality of education in just 14 months by taking prompt and highly effective action.
- The quality of teaching is good and new staff have added valuable skills and expertise
- Pupils are helpful and friendly to visitors and each other and have good manners
- The Executive Headteacher has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of education with great success. The deputy and assistant headteachers support her well, and together they have improved the quality of teaching and pupils’ progress rapidly.
- The governance of the school is outstanding.

The installation of the IEB by the council was a highly successful strategy as it has driven improvement very effectively. Pauline Lucas, Executive Headteacher of Leigh North Junior School said: “We are all delighted at this news, which is great for all the staff, pupils, parents and governors, all of whom have played a vital part in this remarkable journey. “We are a tight knit community and this means a great deal to everyone, so I would say to say a big thank you and well done to all those who have made it possible. The report is very positive but we will also be looking at any areas of improvement identified to get even better.” Cllr Anne Jones, executive councillor for children and learning, says: “This is a glowing inspection report that highlights the excellent work done by all involved in the school, from the pupils and teachers, right through to the council, who decided to install the interim executive last year. “It should not be underestimated how difficult it is to go up just one rating in a year, so to go up two is remarkable. I am pleased that the report reflects how well the school leadership and governors works with the local authority and I am intent on making sure these types of strong partnership continue.”