Primary school is simply outstanding

Date published: 14 January 2012

Pupils and staff at Hazlehurst Primary School are celebrating after education watchdogs gave them an outstanding rating.

The Ramsbottom school scored top marks from Ofsted in all main aspects, from teaching to pupil achievement and school leadership.

The inspectors said that Hazlehurst “provides a very happy, secure and vibrant environment in which pupils thrive” and staff gave pupils exceptional care.

“Pupils of all abilities and starting points make excellent gains in their learning because the head teacher and staff are determined to get the best for and from everyone,” said Ofsted.

Pupils’ personal development was outstanding, their behaviour was excellent, and they made a great contribution to the community. They enjoyed going to school, which was reflected in high attendance and good attitude to learning, with a “buzz of activity in every classroom”.

Inspectors said that teachers inspired excitement and a love of learning in pupils, who worked with great enthusiasm and commitment.

“The curriculum is exceptionally well developed to meet the needs and interests of all pupils and is hugely enriched by the enthusiasm and expertise of staff.”

Youngsters were keen to adopt healthy lifestyles and take part in recycling, and regularly supported charities with fund-raising. “By the time they leave the school, pupils are exceptionally well prepared for the next stage of education,” Ofsted added.

The “inspirational” leadership of the head teacher had enabled the school to build upon existing strengths, and the drive for excellence was evident in all the school’s work.

To improve still further, Ofsted recommended making the children's maths attainment even better as they progress through the school, so that it always matches the high levels in reading and writing. It also gave the school’s Early Years Foundation Stage a rating of “good”, and praised the “exceptional facilities for outdoor learning” and the “excellent partnership with parents and carers”.

Mr Mark Golding, the school’s head teacher, said: “Everyone involved with the school is delighted with Ofsted’s report and rightly proud of their achievements. My thanks go to all the pupils, parents, teachers and school staff for their hard work and support, and the school can only go from strength to strength.”