Ofsted praises Dell Primary for strong inclusion, attendance and pupil wellbeing

Dell Primary School has welcomed the findings of its latest Ofsted inspection, which recognised the school's strengths in attendance, behaviour, inclusion, personal development and early years education.

Inspectors found that pupils enjoy coming to school, feel safe and benefit from a positive learning environment built around the school's values of respect, passion, collaboration and integrity.

The report highlights significant strengths across the school, including high levels of attendance, positive behaviour and strong support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Inspectors noted that leaders have a detailed understanding of pupils' needs and work closely with families to ensure children receive appropriate support and opportunities to succeed.

Ofsted also recognised the quality of the school's early years provision, describing leaders' vision as "clear and ambitious". The report praises the well-sequenced curriculum, nurturing relationships between staff and children, and the strong foundations being established in reading, mathematics and personal development.

Inspectors highlighted the school's commitment to enriching pupils' experiences through initiatives such as careers week, Mental Health Day, residential visits and the school's unique ‘Dell Experience’ programme, designed to broaden aspirations and prepare children for the transition to secondary school.

Inspectors noted improvements in behaviour, inclusive provision and assessment systems and recognised leaders' strong focus on staff wellbeing and professional development.

While recognising these strengths, inspectors identified achievement, particularly in Key Stage 2 writing and mathematics, as an area requiring further attention. The report notes that recent improvements are beginning to strengthen learning, but that greater consistency in teaching and stronger development of handwriting and writing fluency are needed to help pupils achieve even more.

Sam Keeler, Acting Headteacher of Dell Primary School, said: "We are extremely pleased that Ofsted has recognised the caring, inclusive and ambitious environment we have built at Dell Primary School. The report reflects the dedication of our staff, pupils, governors and families.

"We are especially proud of the recognition given to our early years provision, inclusion work and personal development offer. The inspectors saw first-hand the positive relationships that exist throughout our school community and the commitment we have to ensuring every child feels safe, supported and valued.

"We fully recognise the areas identified for further improvement and have already begun implementing actions to strengthen teaching and attainment across the school. We are confident that the work underway, together with the support of colleagues from across Evolution Academy Trust, will help us continue improving outcomes for all pupils."