On 02 and 03 February 2023, we underwent a full, two-day Ofsted inspection.

This was a detailed process, involving discussions about the impact of the pandemic and meetings with the headteacher, senior leaders, staff, pupils, trust leaders, and members of the local governing body. Inspectors conducted 'deep dives' into subjects including early reading, mathematics, and religious education (RE), where they discussed the curriculum, visited lessons, looked at children's work, and spoke with pupils about their learning. They also listened to pupils in Years 1, 2, and 3 read aloud.

The inspection also focused on how well the school protects pupils and ensures their safety. The lead inspector met with our safeguarding team to review safety measures, and they carefully examined the school’s safety records. Inspectors observed pupil behaviour in lessons and around the school, and they spoke to students to hear their views. They also spoke with parents at the start of the school day and reviewed responses to the Ofsted Parent View survey, as well as the staff survey.

We are thrilled to share that the inspection resulted in a ‘Good’ rating in all areas, with the overall effectiveness also rated as ‘Good’.

We are very proud of our achievements and the hard work of our staff and pupils!

Overall effectiveness - Good

The quality of education - Good

Behaviour and attitudes - Good

Personal development - Good

Leadership and management - Good

Early years provision – Good

Comments include:

‘St Dennis is built on strong relationships.’

‘Pupils have a great sense of pride in the school.’

‘Pupils show great enthusiasm for learning, including in the early years.’

‘Leaders have high aspirations for all pupils. Staff share their vision. Leaders do what is best for pupils.’

‘Leaders have planned and established the curriculum carefully.’

‘Leaders have made reading central to the school’s work.’

‘Leaders have crafted a highly effective personal development curriculum.’

‘Governors, in conjunction with the trust, hold leaders to account for the quality of education.’

‘Parents and carers speak positively about the school.’

‘Leaders have established a strong safeguarding culture.’

A full copy of the report is below. 

The report is extremely positive and is a fantastic achievement for everyone in our school and the entire St Dennis Primary Academy community. It reflects how amazing our children are and that they remain at the heart of everything we do.

We hope that you will join us in celebrating this great success and ‘spread the word’ in the community about just how amazing our school is and how exceptional its children and staff are.