Berkhamsted school celebrates positive Ofsted ratings

Berkhamsted’s Victoria C of E Infant and Nursery School has been described by Ofsted inspectors as a place where ‘pupils of all ages feel they belong and can flourish’ after being rated ‘strong’ for achievement, attendance and behaviour and its early years provision.

Just 16% of schools have received the same rating for achievement since the introduction of Ofsted’s rigorous new inspection framework last year, and only 32% of 921 schools inspected under the new framework have achieved a ‘strong’ judgement for attendance and behaviour.

Meanwhile just 25% of the 666 inspected schools with an early years provision have also been judged strong in early years.

Inspectors celebrated the school’s leaders and staff for establishing ‘a highly positive learning culture’, ‘high expectations for all pupils’, as well as an ‘accurate and well-informed understanding of the school’s context, strengths and areas for development’.

‘Staff maintain high expectations for all pupils and provide consistent support, so that pupils build confidence and resilience,’ the report noted.

The school’s work with the curriculum was also praised for being ‘intentionally designed to meet the needs of all pupils’ and pupils were found to be ‘valued and motivated to improve school life for everyone in their community’ and consistently acting ‘with respect and kindness’.

Lisa Freeman, head of school at Victoria C of E Infant and Nursery School, said: ‘We are incredibly proud of our recent Ofsted report, which truly celebrates all that we stand for at Victoria.

‘This recognition reflects the dedication, passion and teamwork of our staff, the enthusiasm and achievements of our wonderful children, and the unwavering support of our families and wider community.

‘To receive strong gradings in achievement, attendance and behaviour, and early years is a testament to the relentless commitment we share to ensuring every child thrives. Our school is built on ambition, care and high expectations, and this report proves the impact of our shared vision of ‘Flourishing in Learning and Love’.’

Together with The Thomas Coram C of E School, Victoria C of E Infant and Nursery School, forms part of Berkhamsted’s Castle Federation and hundreds of local children attend the two schools combined.

Image shows Lisa Freeman, Head of School at Victoria C of E Infant and Nursery School and Rebecca Sargent, Early Years teacher, together with pupils.