RE Eckington CE First School - Ofsted Inspection. The school had a very successful Ofsted Inspection on March 8. The report's key judgements were: 3 exceptional and outstanding grades; 21 above average grades; 2 broadly average grades and 0 inadequate grades.
The article in the Journal chose to focus on one of only two out of 26 areas where the Inspectors felt we were achieving at an average level. I feel that as a result the balance of the report was very misleading for readers. Regrettably our many strengths and outstanding features were not given sufficient emphasis. Indeed our outstanding curriculum, exemplary pupil behaviour and pupils enjoy learning through the exceptional range of experiences and activities provided would have made far more positive headlines.
The second sentence in the article stating that the school was rated satisfactory is factually incorrect. As the report clearly states the school was rated good with many very good and outstanding features. Such inaccurate reporting can seriously damage our very high reputation within the community especially as you chose to make it headline news!
Attendance levels last year were slightly below the Government targets as we had taken effective steps to ensure that registers were accurately marked and pupils were encouraged to be present whenever possible. This is not a major issue within our school, the parents are not wholly responsible and much of the problem lies with the travel agents because of their pricing structures.
Our children would not be achieving such high academic standards, have exemplary behaviour or enjoy school so much if we did not have excellent relationships with our parents and carers.
The staff, Governors and I were delighted with our extremely positive Ofsted report, which clearly stated that Eckington First School is a very good school with some outstanding features.
MRS CHRISTINE MILLWARD, Headteacher, Eckington CE First School.
Editor's note: We apologise for stating that the school was rated satisfactory overall when it was rated good.
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