We previously informed our school community that we were inspected by Ofsted in February and that it had gone very well for us. We have now received the official letter and wanted to share it with everyone as it is such a cause for celebration. It recognises the incredibly hard work that everyone at Eastbrook has put into ensuring the best possible education for our children and states that we have taken effective action throughout the Coronavirus pandemic.

Click on the image to see the letter in full.

Some of the most pleasing statements from the letter include:

·         Leaders and those responsible for governance are taking effective action to provide education in the current circumstances.

·         Leaders have prioritised the teaching of reading in the early years and key stage 1. The development of language and communication skills is now threaded through the curriculum in the early years. Extra daily reading sessions are being delivered remotely for pupils in Years 1 and 2. These sessions focus on making sure that pupils stay on track with their reading.

·         Pupils know how they should behave, both around school and when they are learning at home. Improvements to behaviour have supported leaders’ work to provide education in the current circumstances.

·         Leaders have ensured that school-based social workers continue to provide the well-being therapies that vulnerable pupils need to maintain their focus on learning.

·         Many pupils with SEND are currently attending school. Leaders and staff have ensured that these pupils’ education has, as far as possible, continued seamlessly. This is the case for pupils on site or at home. Tailored support is provided to these pupils when they are learning on site.

Finally, we are delighted that the inspection team captured the support that we have from our parents. They said:

·         You have strong support for the actions you have taken and continue to take during the pandemic. Most staff and parents and carers that responded to the Ofsted surveys agreed with what you are doing to steer the school to a better place. In particular, parents are pleased with the care staff have shown for pupils’ well-being while they have been learning remotely.

All in all an excellent result, recognising the hard work from all staff in ensuring our children continue to learn and thrive.