A REDDITCH school has been awarded a ‘Good’ rating in a recent Ofsted inspection.
St Stephen’s CofE First School, which had previously been found to be ‘Inadequate’ in 2017, joined the Central Region Schools Trust in 2019 as the Trust’s first Sponsored Academy.
With the support of the trust, the school has been transformed.
The inspection report noted the school had implemented a curriculum that was ‘highly ambitious, organised and detailed.’
The ‘highly inclusive environment’ at the school was referenced in the report with inspectors describing how newcomers quickly felt they were part of the St Stephen’s family.
Sarah Callanan, Principal of St Stephen’s First School, said: “We’re pleased to receive this confirmation that our pupils are being provided with what they need to flourish.
“We’re particularly proud to see the report highlighting how they are being supported to thrive both socially and emotionally, as well as achieving high academic standards.
“I am very grateful to our wonderful community of parents, carers and families for their continued support, which has been instrumental in delivering the meaningful and positive transformation outlined in this report.
“My colleagues and I remain committed to our vision that ‘Every child is special in the eyes of God’, and that our pupils will long continue to flourish in our care, so everyone in the St Stephen’s family is supported to do their very best.”
Guy Shears, CEO of the Central Region Schools Trust, said: “The report highlights so many of the positive changes that have taken place at St. Stephen’s in recent years, helping staff and pupils to thrive.
“I know the team at St. Stephen’s will continue to work closely with us at the Central Region Schools Trust to give staff and pupils every opportunity to grow.”