DUDLEY Wood Primary School has celebrated after receiving a ‘good’ rating from Ofsted following an inspection in the summer.

The school was rated ‘good’ across all areas following an inspection on July 2 and 3 after inspectors previously said it 'requires improvement'.

A newly-published report says: “The ‘STARS’ values of Sharing, Trust, Achievement, Respect and Safety are lived daily at Dudley Wood Primary School.

“Pupils achieve well. Their well-being is prioritised. Trusted adults in school listen to and respond to any worries pupils may have. There is a strong culture of safeguarding. Pupils are happy and safe. Parents and carers agree.”

The report says pupils enjoy a wide range of clubs on offer, which broaden their interests, such as computing, cooking, cosmic yoga, drama and sports clubs, as well as focus days, museum visits and field trips.

Inspectors noted “children in the early years get off to a fantastic start” and “staff encourage exploration and problem-solving” and the report adds: “Children grow in confidence and develop a love of learning.”

Pupils with additional needs, including special educational needs or disabilities are quickly identified and get the support they need, the report said.

It adds that teachers are knowledgeable and says: “The school has adopted a highly ambitious curriculum for all its pupils.”

Inspectors commented on how pupils learn to be active citizens, undertaking roles such as well-being champions and school counsellors as well as learning about different faiths and fundraising for the local foodbank.

Dudley Wood Primary School joined the Rivers CofE Academy Trust as an academy convertor in June 2022 and has demonstrated significant progress since its last inspection in March 2022 when the school was judged 'requires improvement', with early years judged as 'inadequate'.

Ofsted inspectors noted “recent work on improving school attendance is having a positive impact” during their inspection but they added that some pupils still do not attend school regularly and miss out on valuable learning – adding: “There is more work to do with parents to instill the importance of regular school attendance.”

The report, however, noted the vast improvements made at the school - saying: “There have been rapid improvements to this school in recent years. The trust has brought significant rigour and challenge while also providing highly effective support to the school. There is now an aspirational school vision and a clear understanding of what needs to improve and how to improve it.”

It also adds that teachers appreciate the support from leaders to manage their workload and wellbeing – adding: “The revised curriculum, resources and changes to the school’s approach to marking have significantly reduced workload.”

Headteacher Jon Beacham, who joined the school in September 2023, said: “We are incredibly proud of our Ofsted rating, which is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire school community.

“Our focus on high standards, supportive learning environments, and comprehensive care is central to our mission.

“We remain committed to addressing the areas highlighted for improvement and building on our successes to ensure every pupil reaches their full potential.”