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Vale of Belvoir schools’ Ofsted joy

Posted on 12/03/2010

Leicestershire Councty Council

12 March 2010

Vale of Belvoir schools’ Ofsted joy

Primary schools in the Vale of Belvoir in Leicestershire are celebrating after their Ofsted success.

Harby Primary School has been judged as outstanding – the highest rating possible – by inspectors for the third consecutive time.

Pupils’ achievements, the extent to which they enjoy their learning and the quality of teaching and leadership at the school have all been given top marks by Ofsted.

Ofsted praised the exceptionally well-planned curriculum which they say ensures that work is closely tailored to pupils’ individual needs.

Head teacher at Harby Primary School, Richard Simpkins, said: “The outstanding rating from Ofsted is wonderful news – the hard work of staff, governors, children and parents has really paid off.

“We are delighted with such a glowing report which praises our supportive yet challenging learning environment and highlights the progress made by pupils and how much they enjoy learning here.”

The news follows Bottesford Primary School and Waltham on the Wolds Primary School both being rated as good schools by Ofsted last month.

Bottesford Primary School performed well across all categories, including the quality of teaching and effective management.  There was particular praise for pupil development at the school.

Ofsted inspectors were impressed with Waltham on the Wolds Primary School.  They highlighted pupils’ behaviour, tacking discrimination and the care, guidance and support given to pupils as major strengths.

Primary schools in the Vale of Belvoir now retain pupils up to Year 6 (age 11), rather than pupils moving on to secondary school after Year 5.  This is part of the reorganisation of schools in Melton Mowbray and the Vale of Belvoir, which aims to raise standards of attainment and achievement by pupils.

Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for the Children and Young People’s Service, said: “I would like to congratulate the primary schools in the Vale of Belvoir on their success.  

“They have performed extremely well since expanding their age ranges.  Schools have benefited from having the Year 6 pupils – they have been excellent role models for the younger children.”

For more information about the Melton and Vale of Belvoir schools’ reorganisation, visit: www.leics.gov.uk/meltonvob

To arrange to take a photograph of the head and pupils at the school, contact head teacher Richard Simpkins on 01949 860 553.