Cambridgeshire village primary school goes from 'requires improvement' to 'Good' in two years

Matthew Senior

24 November 2024 at 10:40 pm·2-min read

Wittering Primary School Ofsted report — -Credit: (Image: Wittering Primary School/Soke Education Trust)

A Cambridgeshire school has received a 'good' rating from Ofsted two years after being rated as 'requires improvement'. Wittering Primary School, in Wittering, was visited by inspectors in September 2024.

The school is part of the Soke Education Trust and caters for pupils between the ages of four and 11. In its previous inspection in June 2022, it was found to have required improvement in the quality of education as well as leadership and management.

However, inspectors found that the school had made good strides since the last report. Praise was given for its "broad and balanced curriculum" along with the vast range of opportunities for pupils who attend.

The report, published on November 12, 2024, said: "This is a friendly school, where everyone receives a warm welcome. Many pupils join the school at different points and only attend for a short period of time. Some of these pupils are new to the country or have not attended school before. They settle in quickly and make friends. Pupils enjoy coming to school every day and feel safe.

"Most pupils focus on their learning and want to do well. They engage with the tasks that they are doing and will ask for help when they need it. They know that the staff want them to do their best and are there to support them when they need it.

"The school has developed a broad and balanced curriculum. It is well sequenced and suitable for the pupils who attend the school. In most subjects, the key knowledge and vocabulary that pupils will learn are identified clearly. Pupils know and remember this knowledge, enabling them to achieve well in these subjects."

Inspectors also highlighted that most parents were positive about the experience that their children receive at the school. They added that staff are well supported by leaders to manage their wellbeing and workload.

Charlotte Blake, Headteacher of Wittering Primary School, expressed her pride, stating: "We are utterly delighted with this report. It reflects the dedication and commitment of our wonderful staff, pupils, and parents. Our school community has created an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to achieve their best. I couldn’t be prouder!"

Cathy Carlisle, Chief Executive Officer of Soke Education Trust, added: "We are thrilled with this positive report from Ofsted. It reflects the dedication and passion of everyone at Wittering Primary School and is a testament to the work that our staff put into nurturing each and every child here. We are genuinely excited about the future opportunities for our pupils under Mrs Blake's leadership."

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