High Praise For St. Nicholas School

St. Nicholas Primary School is delighted with the excellent results of its recent Ofsted inspection, writes Mrs Sue Corcoran, one of the School Governors. The recently released inspection report states: “Teaching is a major strength of the school and this contributes to the well above average standards achieved.”

Ofsted praised the very good leadership and management by the head-teacher Mrs Marion Morgan, and the teaching team leaders. Work was well matched to age and ability so that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, made very good progress. Mrs Morgan said: “We are delighted with the report. Everyone involved with the school works very hard and it’s good to see that recognised.”

David Lochman, who was chairman of the Governors at the time of the inspection said: “We are very pleased that the report recognises the high achievements at St. Nicholas which are an absolute credit to all the staff and everyone else actively involved in the school.” Parents and Governors were praised for their support and work. Mrs Jane Fiennes, the Governors’ clerk, was conscientious and effective.

“Caring, happy and secure”

The report praised the exceptionally wide range of out of schools hours activities, which include: art, maths and chess clubs, a 60-strong junior choir, recorder groups, country and Maypole dancing, information and communication technology (ICT), cycling proficiency, athletics, cricket, rounders, netball and football. The chamber choir’s performance was also praised.

An inspection of the school’s religious education and other spiritual aspects was done at the same time as the Ofsted report. The inspector said that school was caring, happy and secure. Christian values were taught throughout the curriculum, and there was a very positive Christian ethos in the school.

SATs results were very good: the pupils taking part in the national tests for seven-year-olds were well above average in reading, writing and maths. St Nicholas was in the top five per cent of schools in the county for maths results. SATs for 11 year olds showed results well above the national average in English and science, and above average in maths.

Mrs Kathy Tuggey, who is now chairman of the Governors, thanked Mr Lochman for his leadership and hard work over many years.