Dedham C of E Primary School rated 'good' by Ofsted

Dedham Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School has been rated 'good' overall by Ofsted following an inspection lasting from June 4-5.

The school was rated good in quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision.

For personal development, the school was rating outstanding.

The school was last inspected in September 2012 when it was judged as 'outstanding' overall and from then until November 2020 the school was exempted from routine inspections.

Ofsted said “pupils thrive at Dedham Primary School”, adding that the “school’s exceptional personal development provision ensures they become resilient, confident young people”.

The report said lessons are “usually well-matched” to pupils' needs, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, meaning pupils achieve well.

Adventure - The school opened a new 'forest area' in April (Image: Submitted)

The report said pupils “learn exceptionally well” about the diversity of modern Britain, with pupils going to different places of worship.

The school was also praised for its programme where Year 5 pupils connected with a primary school in East London which helps to  “broaden their experience of life”.

Ofsted said the school provides a “broad ambitious curriculum” adding: “Pupils gain a rich body of knowledge throughout the curriculum.”

In a few subjects the curriculum was said to be new or revised, and pupils "do not always gain the breadth and depth of knowledge they need”.

The report added: “Most pupils behave well.

“A few sometimes make the wrong choices. This can interrupt the learning of others.

"Staff work closely with these pupils to explain how they can make better choices”.

The school’s inclusive Christian ethos was praised for giving children a “rich sense of community”, with pupils leaning about topics such as healthy relationships and water safety.

The school’s safeguarding was deemed effective, and Ofsted said staff felt supported in their well-being and workload.

The report added: “Leaders, including governors, know where the school is doing well, and where, and how, it needs to improve further.

“They are determined for it to be the best it can be.”