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Jul 2023

Education

'Highly ambitious' village school near Ripon rated 'outstanding'

Published: 20 Jul 2023, 14:50 BST

by Vicky Carr

A village primary school near Ripon has been graded 'outstanding' by Ofsted in its latest report.

Dishforth Airfield Primary School was praised across the board by inspectors, who described the school community as "safe, happy and highly ambitious".

In the report, published this week, they said:

"Pupils thrive at this exceptional school. Staff expectations for pupils’ behaviour and achievement are very high. Pupils behave extremely well in lessons and are highly enthusiastic about their learning. They talk confidently about what they know and take pride in their work.

"Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are well supported and make excellent progress. Staff know how to get the best out of every child."

While visiting the school last month, inspectors noted that many of the pupils had a parent or carer serving in the armed forces.

They found pupils were "extremely well supported" with this, including through a club for them to join while their parents were deployed overseas.

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The early years provision was described as "superb", while curriculum planning throughout the school was "extremely well thought through".

Inspectors praised pupils' behaviour across the school, as well as their understanding of life in modern Britain.

The report added:

"The leadership team is deeply committed to providing pupils with the very best curriculum and pastoral care. Governors are experts in education. They support and challenge leaders to continually develop the school.

"Teachers describe a supportive ethos. Workload is well managed. Leaders ensure that staff access high-quality training and coaching. Subject leaders receive very effective support. They are confident in their roles. There are regular opportunities for collaborative working."

The school, which has around 100 pupils aged from three to 11, was rated 'outstanding' at its last full inspection in 2015. However, Ofsted has since changed the way it grades schools meaning fewer are now achieving the top rating.

Its leaders have welcomed the latest report, saying it puts Dishforth Airfield Primary School among only 17% of previously 'outstanding' schools to maintain that rating.

Headteacher Julie Lyon said:

“The inspector’s judgement is testament to the hard work, determination and commitment shown by all the staff at the school as well as the governors which in turn enables the children to flourish.”

Chair of governors Jim Brown added:

“It is a fantastic result for the whole school. A testimony to the hard work, dedication and teamwork of everyone involved including our excellent pupils over a number of years. Results like this do not happen overnight.

"Let’s hope everybody can look forward to the summer break with a smile on their face and a spring in their step and come back in September refreshed and ready to continue where they left off.”

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'Highly ambitious' village school near Ripon rated 'outstanding'

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