Staff, pupils and parents at Lowther Endowed School in Hackthorpe near Penrith are celebrating this week after Ofsted Inspectors praised the school for their hard work and achievements.
The inspection report said the school is a good school with effective provision for pupils' personal development. The Headteacher, Mr Pincombe, and key staff, provide very good leadership and care for their pupils well. Overall pupils' achievement is good including that for pupils with special educational needs. The quality of teaching and learning is good and when all these factors, plus the improvements since the last inspection, are taken into account the school gives good value for money.
The main findings in the report are:
1. By year 6, standards are above average in speaking, listening, reading, mathematics and information and communication technology
2. Provision and achievement in the foundation stage are good
3. Standards in writing are not high enough
4. The quality of teaching in years 5 and 6 is satisfactory but needs improving, most particularly the management of the behaviour of a minority of pupils
5. The school has developed very good links with parents and the community
6. There are weaknesses in the quality of strategic management
7. Provision for pupils with special educational needs is good
Headteacher Mike Pincombe said:
"We are very proud of the achievements of our pupils and the very good relationship we have with our parents and community. Lowther Endowed is a caring, happy school, committed to raising standards and encouraging all to take up challenges in a supportive environment. We have high expectations for our children and ourselves and will continue to encourage them to do their very best at all times."
Roger Gill, Chair of Governors said:
"Lowther Endowed is renowned for its caring, inclusive and positive ethos, and is a place where self esteem is promoted to enable the children to achieve their best. We are grateful to staff and parents for the strong contributions they have made to this positive report."