Double delight for Angel Road Schools
Angel Road Infant School has been praised for its nurturing atmosphere, inclusive environment and commitment to every child’s success following its recent Ofsted inspection that rated it ‘Good’ in every category.
Building on the achievement of Angel Road Junior School’s Good and Outstanding report in February this year, the Infant school was praised for both academic and personal development.
Each day, Infant school pupils are warmly welcomed into a safe and inclusive environment where they are known and valued as individuals. Staff are dedicated to building strong relationships with pupils, fostering a culture of trust, compassion and belonging. As a result, children feel secure, supported and eager to learn.
Classrooms at Angel Road are alive with curiosity and enthusiasm. From the earliest days in Nursery, children are encouraged to explore language and develop their vocabulary, laying the groundwork for confident reading and communication. Lessons are engaging and interactive, with pupils asking thoughtful questions and participating actively in discussions: “Pupils are enthusiastic learners and are keen to talk about what they know. They find lessons interesting.”
Inspectors noted the school’s curriculum is thoughtfully designed, with clear learning goals and cross-subject connections that build over time. Reading is a top priority, with phonics taught consistently and effectively. Pupils who need extra help receive targeted support from skilled staff, ensuring no child is left behind: “Reading books are at the correct level of challenge. They help pupils to become fluent and confident readers.”
Beyond academics, Angel Road offers a rich array of clubs, trips and leadership opportunities that help pupils grow in confidence and develop essential social skills. From athletics to Portuguese club, children are encouraged to explore their interests and celebrate diversity.
Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive prompt and tailored support, with staff working closely with families and external agencies to meet individual needs. Parents are actively involved in their children’s learning journey, particularly in shaping support plans for SEND pupils.
The school is part of Evolution Academy Trust, a primary-specialist multi-academy trust. Inspectors noted that Trust staff have played a key role in driving improvement, investing in staff development and ensuring high standards across the board. Their ongoing support for staff well-being and workload is appreciated by the school community.
Headteacher Edward Savage said: “We are thrilled with this outcome for Angel Road. It is richly deserved and testament to the hard work, skill and dedication of the staff team. I am very proud of all the staff, pupils and families; together, the Angel Road Schools community is incredibly strong, and I look forward to continuing successes for everyone.”
Evolution Academy Trust CEO Dr Craig Avieson said: “All of us at Evolution Academy Trust are delighted for Angel Road Infants and welcome this external recognition from Ofsted. All children deserve the very best start in life, and the Angel Road team have been working exceptionally hard to achieve this. A massive thank you to all involved, including the whole Angel Road staff, pupil and parent and carer community.”