'Inspirational' school on Nottinghamshire border rated outstanding in all areas by Ofsted

A school located on the Nottinghamshire - Derbyshire border has been described as inspirational as it scored an overall 'outstanding' Ofsted rating. Pinxton's John King Infant Academy, in Pinxton, had previously been rated 'good' after an inspection in June 2022.

John King Infants is one of three academies in Pinxton including Kirkstead Junior and Longwood Infant Academy, which shares its leadership under headteacher Anne Ingle. The three academies are collectively known as The Pinxton Village Academies and are members of The Flying High Partnership multi-academy trust.

In their report, inspectors said: "This is an inspirational school where pupils flourish and learning comes alive. Pupils who were asked to describe their school used words such as 'amazing', 'beautiful' and 'brilliant'.

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"They understand that we are here to learn'. They are rightly proud of their achievements."

Pupils' "excellent" behaviour has been praised further, with the report saying they are "kind and caring" towards each other and "respectful" to adults. They also pay attention during lessons and understand the importance of trying hard and not giving up "if something is tricky to learn".

The quality of their work in books is also "impressive". Headteacher Anne Ingle said: "We are thrilled that John King Infants has been awarded an Outstanding rating by Ofsted.

"It is a wonderful school in a fantastic community; one which deserves the very best that education has to offer. This result is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our pupils, staff, and families, as well as the unwavering support from our local community and the Flying High Partnership family.

"It truly takes a community to holistically grow our young people, and this recognition affirms the incredible collaborative efforts that make our school a nurturing and inspiring place for every child." Pupils also have access to a range of activities to broaden their personal development, such as sports, yoga, drama, mindfulness, and coding.

The academy was found to ensure all activities are accessible to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Staff also have "expert subject knowledge" and the curriculum is "ambitious" and well planned.

Inspectors said: "It has been designed to enable pupils to 'LEAP' into learning, by being 'Language rich, Experiential, Aspirational and Purposeful'. The school has carefully considered the specific needs and context of the pupils when planning the curriculum.

"For example, the 'learning mine' approach to knowledge and skills is a mark of respect to the community’s proud former mining heritage. In lessons, pupils are encouraged to 'dig into knowledge' as they apply what they know to new skills and concepts."

They added that teachers give "clear explanations" and constantly check pupils’ understanding and that "if something is tricky, an adult will quickly step in or offer a practical resource to support learning". Provision for pupils with SEND is described as "strong" with children’s needs quickly identified and supported, ensuring pupils with SEND can access the full curriculum.

The early years provision at John King Infants is described as "exceptionally strong" and reading is a core strength at the school. Inspectors said: "Children in the early years get off to a flying start in reading, due to the school’s systematic approach."

The school is credited with having high standard indoor and outdoor areas where "creative activities enable children to develop exceptionally well across all the areas of learning". Staff said they were proud to work at the school and praised the high levels of training they access through the school and its Trust.

Safeguarding is effective at the school, and the school’s Governance was described as "strong". Headteacher Anne Ingle added: "We are deeply grateful to our community and to be part of the incredible Flying High Partnership, led by Chris Wheatley.

"We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the inspirational Claire Stirland, Director of Education, whose unwavering support and guidance has been instrumental for Pinxton Village Academies. Our children are fantastic ambassadors for their community, and it is a privilege for us to teach them each day.

"We are thrilled that inspectors were able to see this for themselves. Together, we will continue to strive for excellence, nurturing the potential of every child and making every day count."