This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone at West Thornton. The school has been on a remarkable journey of improvement over the last four years, and this report is a resounding validation of those efforts.

What makes West Thornton Primary School so special?

The Ofsted report highlights a number of key factors that contribute to the school's success. From the moment children enter Reception, they are immersed in a language-rich environment where vocabulary development is paramount. This focus on language equips pupils with the essential skills they need to excel across the curriculum and in their future learning. The inspectors noted the impressive communication skills of even the youngest pupils.Reading is another area where West Thornton truly shines. The school's phonics programme is delivered with precision by well-trained staff, and the results are clear to see. Pupils are quickly becoming fluent readers, developing a love of books that will stay with them for life.

The report praises the meticulously sequenced curriculum, which is designed to help pupils learn and remember more over time. Innovative techniques, such as the use of ‘road maps’ and ‘story maps’ in the early years, help pupils make connections between different areas of learning and build a solid foundation for future success.

Teachers at West Thornton benefit from high-quality, subject-specific training, giving them the knowledge and expertise to deliver engaging and effective lessons. They are deeply committed to their pupils, working tirelessly to ensure that every child, including those with SEND, is supported to reach their full potential.

Beyond academic excellence, West Thornton is a place where personal development flourishes. The school's 'global curriculum' weaves together themes of social justice, diversity, and inclusion, preparing pupils to be responsible and compassionate citizens of the world. The inspectors were particularly impressed by the pupils' behaviour, describing it as calm, caring, and harmonious.

This success is a team effort. The school’s leadership team, under the Inspire Partnership Academy Trust, has played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of high expectations and continuous improvement. They have worked closely with staff, governors, and parents to create a school where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.

The school is incredibly proud of this Ofsted report and what it represents. It is a celebration of a school community that works together to provide the very best education for its pupils. While there are always areas for further refinement, West Thornton Primary School is confident that it is on the right path, and the future looks very bright indeed.

Please click on the link below to read the full report: