Over Hall Community School celebrates Good Ofsted rating

Over Hall Community School was graded Requires improvement following a previous inspection in October 2021, but during its last visit on March 6 and 7, the education watchdog noted 'considerable change' which has 'been managed sensitively and caringly'. 

In their report, published on April 18, inspectors drew special attention to the school's personal development programme, which is called 'exceptional', and rated it Outstanding. 

They also praised the school’s ambitious and broad curriculum, its ‘rapid’ response to identifying and closing learning gaps, and staff morale, which is high.

Inspectors noted how pupils at Over Hall look out for one another (Image: Claire Edgeley)

The report goes on to describes the school as a ‘safe and calm oasis, which many pupils will remember with fondness for many years’.

Over Hall head teacher, Claire Edgeley, said: “This is a true and accurate reflection of our school community with a well-deserved outcome for all our children, families, staff, and trustees.

“Our strong ethos aims to ensure that our children are equipped for beyond the school gates whether that be at the end of a day, week, school year or, indeed, their primary education.

“It is heartwarming to read the recognition given to the team in striving for the very best for each and every child.

“Parents and carers regularly hear about our focus upon how every minute counts in a child’s learning, and we are proud to be recognised for our hard work upon all areas, including attendance and attitudes towards learning.

“Regardless of barriers, starting points, or significant events, our team strive to ensure the curriculum offer and opportunities to learn are tailored to the children.”

In her report, lead inspector, Jo Olsson, notes how well pupils behave, adding: “The trusting relationships they hold with staff underpins their desire to follow the school rules.

“Children are taught how to behave from the moment they enter the reception class.

“Attendance is a very high priority. Careful analysis of the root causes for pupils missing school has led to absence levels reducing by almost half over the past year.

“Pupils take on many leadership responsibilities, such as school councillors or reading ambassadors. They keep an eye on those pupils who opt to sit on the buddy bench to make sure that no-one feels lonely or left out.

“Older pupils generously share their time with children in the early years to support them in their reading development.

“Starting from the early years through to Year 6, the curriculum is ambitious and broad in scope. It ensures that pupils learn all they should across a range of subjects.

“The curriculum has been well designed, so teachers know what to teach in each topic and year group.

“Effective subject leadership has ensures teachers are well equipped to deliver the curriculum. They use their secure subject knowledge to design suitable activities that help pupils to learn the content of the curriculum.

“They check what pupils have learned and ensure that appropriate strategies are in place to help any pupils who have not understood new learning. This is especially true for pupils with SEND, whose needs are identified early, and they are well supported to be successful learners.”