Norman CofE Primary School in Northwold receives first overall ‘good’ Ofsted rating in more than 20 years

A school is celebrating after receiving its first overall ‘good’ rating in more than two decades.

Norman Church of England Primary School, in Northwold, had its Ofsted inspection on September 19 and 20 where it was reported that “there is a warm and welcoming atmosphere”.

Of the five categories for inspection, the school was graded ‘good’ in all for the first time since 2001 – a positive development from the overall rating of previous years which was ‘requires improvement’.

Head teacher Mrs Fisher said: “We are elated, it has been a long journey. I started working here just over two years ago and we have achieved a lot.

“The ‘good’ Ofsted report couldn’t have come at a better time as we are coming up to our 150-year anniversary so it is a really positive moment.”

The school is part of the Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust which works to improve the school’s curriculum – called “ambitious and well-designed” in the report.

The school, which has 107 pupils, was also praised for its ability to support those with special educational needs and/or disabilities; its teaching of reading and phonics in early years; and its management of behaviour.

In the report, Ofsted said: “Pupils’ behaviour is a strength. They treat everyone kindly and with respect. The school’s behaviour code of ‘respectful, ready and safe’ is promoted effectively in all aspects of school life.”

The rating comes after a year of positive news as the school also received a ‘good’ grade in their Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report last year. In addition to this, they achieved their best-ever SATs results at 79% combined, which is 20% above the national average.

In the future, Mrs Fisher hopes to improve the rating by offering more school trips, and inviting more guests into the school to enhance the children’s understanding of the wider world.