Local school is overjoyed with an impressive Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rating in behaviour and attitudes
Sandford St Martin’s CE VA Primary School achieved a ‘good’ overall rating in all categories from school watchdog Ofsted with an Outstanding grade for ‘behaviour and attitudes’ following a recent inspection (November 2022)
Sandford School’s previous inspection in 2019 was rated as ‘Requires Improvement’, however, the school has made vast improvements since then.
Head teacher Paul Beveridge is quoted as saying “I am delighted with the Ofsted report and gradings. I feel it is very well deserved and the report reads like a typical day at Sandford St Martin’s. Our children are exceptional in so many ways – and they are very well supported by dedicated staff and governors. I am pleased that our hard work and dedication is paying off and that our rapid improvements, especially through the challenges of the pandemic, have been acknowledged. We are looking forward to the next stage of development under our new motto: Learn, Love, laugh”
The brand new Ofsted report said ‘pupils are proud to attend this inclusive school. The schools’ Christian values underpin daily life for everyone and pupils know that these are valuable, lifelong principles. Pupils have a strong sense of moral purpose. They know that everyone should be respected and treated equally regardless of race, culture, beliefs or needs. Pupils behaviour and attitudes to their learning are noted as ‘exceptional’ which the school believes is wording seldom used by Ofsted.
After spending two days in the warm, friendly learning environment one of the Ofsted inspectors said to the Governing board and senior leadership team ‘Every school says they are a family, but here, I can really see that you are’.
During the inspection a survey was given to parents, pupils and staff. The responses from the pupils were documented and every child said they felt safe at school, they enjoyed their learning and felt their teachers listen to them. The parent’s response was that the school was very welcoming, very approachable and that it communicates well. Parents shared that any SEND needs in the school are identified quickly and the support to the children and parents is excellent.
To see the full report and learn more about Sandford St Martin’s CE VA Primary School please visit their website (which is being revamped and relaunched in February 2023) for contact details and to see a virtual tour of the school. www.sandfordprimary.dorset.sch.uk