Handforth Grange Primary School celebrates as it receives Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rating

Handforth Grange Primary School (HGPS) was recently inspected by Ofsted and has been graded OUTSTANDING after its first Ofsted inspection since joining the Frank Field Education Trust.

The school was rated as ‘outstanding’ in all five key judgement areas, which include: The Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, Leadership & Management and Early Years provision.

Ofsted Inspectors reported that “Staff are united by a common desire to do their best for each and every pupil” adding “Handforth Grange is an inspiring place to learn. Pupils, including children in the early years, enjoy an array of exciting and diverse opportunities for their personal growth.”

Mrs Andrea Booth, Head Teacher of Handforth Grange Primary School, expressed her pride and joy in the school’s outstanding achievement: “Receiving an ‘outstanding’ rating from Ofsted is a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit of our exceptional staff, parents, pupils and the entire school community.

She added: “Our commitment to providing an inspiring and inclusive learning environment, coupled with the array of exciting opportunities for personal growth, has been recognised by Ofsted. We are thrilled to be a part of the Frank Field Education Trust, and this achievement reflects the hard work and passion that define Handforth Grange Primary School. Our journey is one of continuous improvement and we look forward to further building on this success to further enhance the educational experience for our children at HGPS.”

During the two-day inspection, Ofsted reported: “Leaders have exceptionally high expectations of all pupils. Pupils embrace the challenge of working hard, being nice and celebrating their successes. They are passionate about their school. Pupils are proud to be part of a community that welcomes all and champions diversity.”

Inspectors said, “Pupils’ attitudes to learning are exemplary”, teachers “are skilful in their assessment of what pupils know, understand and can do” adding “children benefit from a remarkable range of musical, sporting, artistic and cultural activities.”

The school became part of the Frank Field Education Trust in 2019. Ofsted reported: “The trust and those responsible for governance oversee the school’s work effectively. They work in partnership with the school to make sure that the impact of change on staff’s workload and well-being is considered carefully.”

“The school has introduced an ambitious and inspiring curriculum in all subjects. These curriculums are clear about exactly what pupils should learn. Subject curriculums start in the early years and are ordered thoughtfully throughout the school.”

“Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and those who attend the specially resourced provision for pupils with SEND (specially resourced provision), flourish during their time at the school.”

“Reading is at the heart of the school’s work. Staff promote reading relentlessly. Pupils love reading and spoke with passion about their favourite books, authors and genres. Staff are experts at teaching early reading.”

The report in full can be viewed at https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/21/146615