A Derby primary school has been recognised by Ofsted for creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued and ready to learn.
Inspectors found that Bishop Lonsdale Church of England Primary School and Nursery, part of Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, meets the expected standard in every area under Ofsted’s new inspection framework, highlighting the school’s strong culture of wellbeing, inclusion and high expectations.
The inspection praised the school’s “positive and supportive” atmosphere, where pupils develop a strong sense of belonging and staff know children and their families extremely well.
Inspectors said pupils are polite, confident and respectful. They also recognised the school’s commitment to supporting children’s emotional wellbeing through initiatives including its popular ‘Zen Den’, worry boxes and personalised support for pupils who need additional help.
The report also highlighted the school’s improving academic performance, noting that pupils’ attainment in reading, writing and mathematics is close to national averages, while disadvantaged pupils perform above the national average in reading.
Inspectors found that leaders have carefully designed a curriculum that builds knowledge progressively from the early years through to Year 6, with effective phonics teaching helping children become fluent and accurate readers.
The early years provision was also praised, with inspectors noting that children make a positive start to school life, benefit from warm relationships with staff and become “confident and curious learners”.
The report recognised the school’s extensive programme of personal development, with pupils taking on leadership roles including attendance ambassadors, Bishop Buddies, eco-warriors and online safety champions known as ‘Ivengers’.
Inspectors also praised leaders for adapting the school to meet the changing needs of the community, particularly the increasing number of pupils with complex needs, while maintaining strong relationships with families and external agencies.
Head of School Sarah Brownhall said: “We are delighted that the inspection recognises what makes Bishop Lonsdale such a special place to learn and grow. Our staff work incredibly hard to ensure every child feels safe, valued and supported to achieve their very best, and it is wonderful to see that commitment reflected throughout the report.
“We are particularly pleased that inspectors recognised our caring ethos, the strength of our relationships with families and our focus on children’s wellbeing alongside their academic achievement. We will continue to build on these strengths as we strive to give every child the very best education.”
Dr Sarah Clark, CEO of Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, said: “This report reflects the dedication of the entire school community. Bishop Lonsdale has created an environment where children thrive because they are known, valued and encouraged to flourish both academically and personally.
“The inspectors have recognised the school’s commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and continuous improvement, alongside the strength of its leadership. We are incredibly proud of the whole team for everything they do to support their pupils and families.”
While recognising the school’s many strengths, inspectors identified areas for further development, including embedding improvements in writing, ensuring teaching is consistently strong across the curriculum and continuing to develop teachers’ use of adaptive teaching strategies. Leaders have already begun work on these priorities.
