Downham Market's Nelson Academy is still ‘good’ after latest Ofsted inspection

A West Norfolk primary school continues to be ‘good’ after its most recent Ofsted inspection.

Officials visited Nelson Academy in Downham on November 8 and 9 and have since described the school as “warm and welcoming”.

In the report, they said that pupils learn an “ambitious curriculum”, teachers have “strong subject knowledge of the subjects they teach” and leaders provide “rich and relevant opportunities for pupils’ personal development”.

Meanwhile, the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

Principal Sarah Wilson said she was “incredibly proud” of Nelson Academy’s staff team, children and wider community.

“Ofsted confirming that we continue to be a good school is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved with the academy, and the report really does reflect what day to day life at the Nelson Academy is like,” she added.

“There have been many challenges since our previous inspection in 2016, especially throughout Covid, but the children have remained central to every decision which has been made and ensuring the very best outcomes for each and every one of them.”

Paul Shanks, chief executive of the Eastern Multi-Academy Trust, which Nelson Academy is part of, said: “We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised that Nelson continues to be a good school where pupils learn and achieve well.

“The report reflects the hard work of our colleagues who strive to provide all children with meaningful and relevant opportunities to develop their personal development.

“We were particularly pleased that Ofsted recognised the fantastic work that has gone into developing a truly ambitious and exciting curriculum, which supports our children to develop rich knowledge and understanding across all subjects.

“This ensures that they are well prepared well for the next stage of their education.”

Ofsted said for the school to improve, it needs to look at providing “precise support” to a small number of weaker readers in key stage 1 to allow them to catch up.