Ofsted praises school

Springhead Infant and Nursery School

SPRINGHEAD Infant and Nursery School has been praised by inspectors two years after it was told to improve.

Education watchdog Ofsted has rated the Cooper Street school as good in all areas ­- the second best of four possible ratings.

It had been classed as requires improvement (grade three) at its previous inspection in October, 2014. Since then it has formed a federation ­- where two or more schools work in collaboration ­- with Propps Hall Primary School in Failsworth. Gillian Kay is executive head teacher of both and a number of senior staff work across the federation.

Strong

Ofsted inspectors returned to Springhead which has 268 pupils last month and their latest report says: "The executive head teacher has a clear vision for the school and has been unwavering in her determination to make improvements. Her strong leadership has been pivotal in moving the school forward."

Sharp and well-focussed improvement plans have eradicated any poor performance, says Ofsted, and teaching has improved.

Children leave the school at the end of Year 2 with results above the national average and Ofsted adds: "All groups of pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and the most able, make good progress and some make outstanding progress.

"Achievement in reading and mathematics is good and improving rapidly in writing.

The inspection report also praises improving attendance, the well-planned curriculum and lessons, pupils' personal development and welfare, and the governing body.

"There is a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the school. Pupils conduct themselves well in lessons and in the playground. There are good relationships between pupils and adults," says Ofsted.

Mrs Kay is delighted with the report and said: "It's pleasing to read that the inspectors recognised the good work that is going on in the school and how hard the school community has worked to make positive change.

"Both Propps Hall and Springhead work very well together across the federation and they will continue to do so in the future. We feel that the school now has the capacity to go from strength to strength."