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Edenbridge Primary School, in the High Street, rated 'good' by Ofsted

11:30, 05 December 2022

updated: 11:31, 05 December 2022

A school which was once rated "inadequate" by education inspectors has turned itself around since joining a trust.

Edenbridge Primary was taken over by The Pioneer Academy in 2018 and this year had its first Ofsted review – scoring "good" in all areas.

It has been rated "good" by Ofsted inspectors. Picture: Edenbridge Primary
It has been rated "good" by Ofsted inspectors. Picture: Edenbridge Primary

Head teacher Clare Butcher said: "We are thrilled that the children’s enthusiasm for learning, staff hard work and dedication to providing wonderful learning experiences for the children, as well as all of the parental support, has been recognised and enabled us to achieve this fantastic outcome.

"I am immensely proud of this school."

The report from October praised the school and trust leaders for their "clear, ambitious vision" and said pupils are "proud of who they are, and their school community."

It said pupils "do well in a wide range of subjects", are confident readers by the time they reach Year 6, have a love for reading and books and a strong understanding of phonics.

Inspectors added that the children feel safe and are well looked after by staff and respectful of people's differences.

Head teacher Clare Butcher says she is proud of the school. Picture: Edenbridge Primary
Head teacher Clare Butcher says she is proud of the school. Picture: Edenbridge Primary

The report also mentioned the school's 'Pioneer Passport' scheme which outlines school trips such as visits to farms, castles and museums.

Despite the "good" rating, inspectors did suggest areas in which the school in the High Street could improve.

It said leaders are still in the process of making changes in the curriculum for some subjects meaning "pupils sometimes find it difficult to make links with what they have already learned."

But inspectors added: "Leaders are well on the way to ensuring that all subjects are of the same high standard."

They also said although staff have systems to record information regarding behaviour and attendance but it is not currently used as effectively as it could.

Pupils taking part in the town's bonfire parade. Picture: Stef Hillwood Photography
Pupils taking part in the town's bonfire parade. Picture: Stef Hillwood Photography

The school was previously rated "inadequate" in November 2017.

Regional director for Edenbridge Primary, Vicky Marsh said: "We are all delighted with this Ofsted report and its reflection of everything that makes Edenbridge Primary such a special place.

"I am so proud of our staff and pupils, whose hard work and enthusiasm make this such a happy, positive and purposeful school in which to learn.

"Everyone here is committed to ensuring the best possible education for our children, and it is fantastic to see this recognised."

Chief executive officer at The Pioneer Academy, Lee Mason-Ellis added: "This is a fantastic achievement for the staff and pupils, and justly acknowledges everyone’s hard work.

"Congratulations to the staff, pupils and, of course, the parents, whose support is very much appreciated. They should all be very proud."

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