Holbrook Primary School community in Trowbridge is celebrating following the publication of its recent Ofsted report.
The school was last inspected in March 2020 when it was judged to ‘Require Improvement’. This recent inspection in March 2024 has resulted in a judgement of ‘Good’ in all areas. Inspectors noted the changes made in phonics, the curriculum and in provision for pupils with SEND, as well as identifying strong practice in personal development, leadership and behaviour and attitudes of pupils.
The inspection team recognised and praised the friendly, welcoming ethos and commented specifically on the positive attitudes and behaviour of Holbrook children.
The team at Holbrook is already well under way with the next steps in school development and excited to continue enhancing provision for all learners. The school was delighted to have a significant new building project last year which has further improved their grounds.
Vicki Cottrell, Headteacher at Holbrook Primary School, said, “The Holbrook team have all worked incredibly hard since the last inspection and it was an absolute joy to welcome the Ofsted inspectors into our school and show them what a great education is on offer at Holbrook.
“The inspectors commented on how welcomed they felt by both staff and pupils, and that sums up our school – everyone is welcome here and Holbrook is a very special place! I would like to thank the team from Wiltshire Local Authority who have supported and challenged us in the time leading up to our inspection.
“Last year our state of the art new building was officially opened and this year we have achieved the Ofsted outcome we deserve. Our mission is to inspire, nurture and challenge our pupils every day; we will continue to strive to improve our school even further and we know, as always, we will have lots of fun along the way!”
Rebecca Lockwood Norris, Chair of Governors at Holbrook Primary School, added, “Holbrook’s Full Governing Body are pleased to see Ofsted’s acknowledgement of the dedication to Holbrook by staff, and the recognition of the FGB’s journey to becoming more robust in its role.”
Quotes from the Ofsted report:
- Pupils are happy and enjoy learning at this welcoming, friendly school.
- Pupils display positive attitudes to learning and are keen to do well.
- Pupils feel safe. Staff take time to form respectful and positive relationships with them.
- Pupils trust staff to listen and help them with any worries they may have.
- Staff and pupils share a love of reading.
- The school’s programme for pupils’ personal development is an integral part of its work. It promotes positive mental and physical health at every opportunity.
- The school accurately identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Support plans for individual pupils are precise and routinely reviewed. Staff have the expertise neededto support pupils in their learning. As a result, most pupils with SEND show increasing levels of independence, progress as well as their peers through the curriculum and are fully included in all aspects of school life.
There are currently spaces in all year groups for next year including Reception – the team welcome school visits and tours. Please contact the school office on 01225 753708.