Calderdale school where pupils “flourish and thrive” praised in latest Ofsted report

The Greetland Academy, a primary school on School Street in Greetland, was rated at Strong Standard in all seven areas of the inspection.

This means, according to Ofsted, the school reaches a strong standard, and leaders are working above the standard expected of them.

Inspectors said leaders have established “highly effective systems” to ensure that pupils secure the basic skills in reading, writing and mathematics, and that pupils achieve “consistently well” across the curriculum.

The report said pupils feel a “strong sense of belonging and enjoy being at school” and attendance is good because pupils “do not want to miss learning.”

Inspectors described the curriculum as high quality, well sequenced, and ambitious.

The early years learning environment was described as “happy and welcoming” and that a culture of inclusion has been embedded across the school.

Inspectors said parents speak “extremely” positively about the school, and that they are “rightly proud” to send their children there.

Staff said the feel “valued and lucky” to work at the school.

Inspectors said next steps for the school are for it to continue to refine and develop its “highly effective provision so that it has a transformational impact on all pupils’ educational experience.”

Executive Principal Helen Crowther said: “We are absolutely delighted with this outcome.

“While we were incredibly proud to be recognised as Outstanding at our last inspection, this report demonstrates that we have not stood still.

“Over the past five years, we have continued to innovate, refine and strengthen every aspect of what we do, ensuring that every child receives the very best education and opportunities.

“To achieve the Strong Standard across every area under Ofsted's new, more demanding framework is a tremendous achievement and reflects the unwavering commitment, expertise and passion of our entire staff team.

“This report celebrates not only our consistently high standards, but also the inclusive, caring and ambitious culture that makes The Greetland Academy such a special place to learn and work.

“I am immensely proud of our children, whose kindness, confidence and enthusiasm shone throughout the inspection, and I would like to thank our dedicated staff, governors, trustees and families for the part they have all played in this success.

“This recognition belongs to every member of our school community.

“We are also incredibly grateful for the support provided by Great Heights Academy Trust.

“Being part of a trust that shares our ambition for excellence, invests in professional development and encourages collaboration across its schools has played an important role in helping us continually improve while always keeping children at the heart of every decision.

“Although we will take time to celebrate this fantastic achievement, our commitment to continuous improvement remains as strong as ever.

“We will continue to strive to give every child the very best possible start in life and to ensure that The Greetland Academy continues to go from strength to strength.”

The report can be viewed at: https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/21/136375