Holywell Village First School celebrates Outstanding Ofsted rating
Pupils, staff, and governors at Holywell Village First School are celebrating after receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating in all areas in their latest Ofsted inspection. This remarkable achievement highlights the school’s dedication to excellence and the outstanding provision it offers to every child.
Congratulations, Holywell!
The rigorous inspection, conducted by two Ofsted inspectors alongside one HMI, provided a thorough evaluation of the school’s teaching, leadership, and overall environment. The resulting report is a glowing testament to the school’s high standards, praising its curriculum, inclusivity, and pupil behavior.
A School Committed to Excellence
The newly released Ofsted report commends the school’s ambitious curriculum, stating: “The school’s ambitious curriculum gives all pupils many rich opportunities to develop new knowledge.”
Beyond academic excellence, the report highlights the warm and nurturing environment at Holywell Village First School, noting: “Pupils are safe and happy at this school.”
Additionally, the inspectors recognised the exemplary behavior of pupils, particularly their deep understanding and embodiment of the school’s core values. The report also acknowledges the school’s well-planned programme aimed at developing pupils as future citizens.
An Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environment
Inclusivity is at the heart of Holywell Village First School’s ethos. The Ofsted report praises the school’s exceptional support for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND): “The school supports pupils with SEND very well, ensuring that they experience a broad, balanced, and ambitious curriculum alongside their peers.”
Furthermore, the inspectors confirmed that safeguarding arrangements are effective, acknowledging the school’s commitment to putting pupils’ interests first through an open and positive culture around safeguarding.
Proud leadership and community recognition
Head Teacher Sarah Brett expressed immense pride in the school community, stating: “I am exceptionally proud of our pupils and staff. Holywell Village First School aims to give every child the best possible education, and this report highlights that and much more. Our pupils embody our values of being ‘respectful,’ ‘ready to learn,’ and ‘thoughtful, caring, and kind’—qualities that the inspectors recognized during their visit.
“This achievement reflects the dedication of our entire school community, from leadership and staff to the incredible pupils who make our school such a wonderful place to learn and grow.”
Angela Hall, Chair of Governors, echoed this sentiment, adding: “The Governors are extremely pleased and proud of the staff and pupils. The Outstanding outcomes in all five Ofsted judgements are a testament to their dedication and drive to ensure that Holywell Village First School provides the very best start to its pupils’ educational journey.
“We are privileged to work alongside and support the Head Teacher and staff, and we are delighted that Ofsted has recognised their incredible work.”
Looking ahead to a bright future
This Outstanding recognition reaffirms Holywell Village First School’s unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing, inclusive, and high-achieving learning environment.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “With this accolade, Holywell Village First School continues to set very high standards for excellence in primary education, ensuring that every child receives the very best start on their learning journey. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
We love to hear good news from North East Schools! To share your news with Schools North East, please tag @SchoolsNE on X (formlerly Twitter) or fill out this short form here.