School’s inclusive approach helps pupils thrive, says Ofsted

A 'warm and welcoming' school where pupils are 'valued and cherished' has been praised by Ofsted.

Inspectors visited Warstones Primary School on 29 September and, in their report published recently, found that leaders and staff know their pupils 'extremely well' and create a culture where they feel 'safe, secure and ready to learn'.  

Pupils enjoy coming to school and are 'increasingly well prepared for the next stage of their education'. They demonstrate positive attitudes to learning and develop secure foundational knowledge, particularly in reading, writing and mathematics.

Regardless of their starting points or circumstances, pupils typically achieve well in the national tests taken at the end of Year 6. Inspectors say this is thanks to the school's 'broad and engaging' curriculum and leaders’ 'strong emphasis on removing barriers'.

Staff receive the training they need to support pupils with a wide range of vulnerabilities, including those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND). Indeed, inclusion is a 'significant strength' of the school, particularly its work with pupils with hearing impairments who are successfully and fully integrated into all aspects of school life and learning, and 'thrive alongside their peers.'

Pupils' personal development is a high priority at Warstones. The school provides the confidence they need for future success through a well-designed offer, which is 'highly effective and well considered'.

Pupils show a consistently strong understanding of equality, diversity and respect, and value the many opportunities available to them. They also appreciate that their views are listened to, contributing to school improvement through its pupil parliament.

Leaders and governors are 'rightly proud of their school and the key role it plays within their local community' and ambitious for all pupils. Meanwhile, families are 'overwhelmingly positive about the school’.

Inspectors concluded Warstones Primary School is at Strong Standard for Inclusion, and Personal development and wellbeing, and at Expected Standard for Achievement, Attendance and behaviour, Curriculum and teaching, Early years, and Leadership and governance. The school also met safeguarding standards.

Headteacher Ashley Powell said: "We are absolutely delighted that Ofsted has recognised the dedication, commitment and passion of our entire school community.

“This report celebrates what makes Warstones Primary School such a special place – our inclusive culture, committed pastoral care and the high-quality opportunities we provide for every child to thrive.

“I am incredibly proud of our staff, whose hard work and unwavering belief in our children make this possible, and of our pupils, who demonstrate the kindness, respect and enthusiasm for learning highlighted throughout the report.

“It is a privilege to lead such a wonderful school, and we remain committed to building on these strengths as we continue striving for the very best for our children."

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: "This is a wonderful report which highlights the warm, inclusive and nurturing environment that makes Warstones Primary School a really special place to learn.

"Inspectors highlight the school's commitment to ensuring every child feels valued, safe and supported to achieve their potential, regardless of their starting point or circumstances, and identify inclusion as a significant strength.

"I would like to congratulate Headteacher Ashley Powell, the entire school community and, of course, the pupils themselves on this excellent outcome." 

Meanwhile, class teacher Karen Wilcox also has cause for celebration after clocking up 40 years’ working at the school. She joined Warstones back in 1986 and reached the milestone recently.

Karen said: "Warstones is a huge part of my life, and it has been a privilege to shape and influence so many young lives.

"I have made many friends and memories along the way, facing and sharing challenges and successes, and I look forward to continuing as part of the Warstones family."