A MATLOCK school has been recognised for its outstanding provision after securing a ‘Strong’ judgement in every area inspected under Ofsted’s new framework.
All Saints CofE Junior School achieved a “Strong standard” across all six inspection categories – Achievement, Attendance and Behaviour, Curriculum and Teaching, Inclusion, Leadership and Governance, and Personal Development and Wellbeing – while safeguarding standards were also confirmed as fully met.
The result places All Saints, which belongs to Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, among a small number of schools nationally to achieve a clean sweep of Strong judgements under Ofsted’s new inspection system.
Inspectors praised the school for creating an environment where pupils “thrive”, achieve highly and feel a strong sense of belonging. The report found that pupils’ attainment is consistently above national averages, with disadvantaged pupils performing better than similar pupils nationally and all children were well prepared for secondary school.
The report also highlighted the school’s ambitious curriculum, exceptional commitment to inclusion and culture of high expectations.
Inspectors said: “Inclusion is at the heart of the school’s work”, noting that leaders and staff ensure all pupils feel a sense of belonging and have every opportunity to succeed.
Attendance was recognised as consistently above the national average, while inspectors found classrooms to be calm, with disruptions to learning “extremely rare”. Pupils were praised for their kindness, respect and positive attitudes to learning.
Executive Headteacher Ben O’Connell said: “We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the strength of our school across every area of its inspection framework. This outcome reflects the dedication and professionalism of our staff, the enthusiasm and achievements of our pupils, and the support of our parents, governors and wider community.
“We are particularly proud that inspectors recognised our inclusive ethos and the culture we have built, where every child is known, valued and supported to flourish. While we celebrate this achievement, we remain committed to continually improving and providing the very best opportunities for every pupil.”
Inspectors also commended the school’s broad range of enrichment opportunities, from music and sport to leadership roles, educational visits and extra-curricular clubs. They noted that leaders carefully ensure all pupils can participate, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities.
The report praised the school’s leadership team and trustees for maintaining high standards, supporting staff development and ensuring that pupils’ best interests remain at the heart of decision-making.
Inspectors also found that Derby Diocesan Academy Trust plays an ‘important role in the school’s work’ – from providing high-quality professional learning opportunities to ensuring staff have manageable workloads.
Derby Diocesan Academy Trust CEO Sarah Clark said: “We are absolutely delighted that All Saints CofE Junior School has achieved a Strong judgement in every area of the inspection framework. This is a significant achievement and reflects the dedication, expertise and commitment of the school’s leaders, staff, governors and wider community.
“The report highlights what we see every day – a school where children thrive academically, socially and personally, supported by a culture of inclusion, ambition and care. “As a Trust, we are proud to support our schools to continually improve and provide the very best opportunities for pupils. We congratulate everyone at All Saints on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing the school continue to go from strength to strength.”
