St Mary’s CofE Primary School (Timsbury) is celebrating a remarkable achievement after receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating in all categories during its most recent Ofsted inspection. This marks an extraordinary transformation for the school, which was previously rated ‘Inadequate’ before joining the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership (MNSP) trust in May 2020.
Over the past four years, St Mary’s has undergone a rapid and impressive improvement, moving from the bottom to the top of the Ofsted ratings in just one inspection cycle. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of a wide range of stakeholders, including staff, leadership, pupils, and the wider community, all contributing to the school’s remarkable success.
The Ofsted report highlights the school’s exceptional standards in teaching, leadership, and provision for pupils:
- Every adult in the school wants the very best for every single pupil. They leave no stone unturned in trying to make that happen.’
- The school provides an exceptionally inclusive environment.’
- ‘Pupils learn the ambitious curriculum successfully and achieve well.’
- ‘Many pupils told us that they feel lucky to attend this school.’
- ‘Pupils behave extremely well and work very hard.’
- ‘The school seeks out any opportunity to broaden pupils’ horizons, help them pursue an interest or develop a talent.’
- ‘Pupils make a significant contribution to the smooth running of the school.’
- ‘The extra-curricular offer is exceptionally strong.’
- ‘The longer a pupil has been at the school, the better their end of key stage attainment becomes.’
The transformation at St Mary’s has had a positive impact on the local community, fostering a renewed sense of pride and confidence among residents of Timsbury.
St Mary’s, though a small school, is driven by a big vision – ‘I can do all things.’ The school offers the personalised care and nurturing environment of a smaller setting, complemented by impressive facilities and outdoor learning spaces. Originally built as a secondary school, St Mary’s enjoys extensive land and resources that enhance the pupils’ learning experience.
The school boasts a variety of outdoor learning areas, including dedicated EYFS play zones, school playgrounds, woodlands, outdoor classrooms, a forest school site, raised beds, a greenhouse and even a ‘Book Burrow.’ Additionally, a huge field and a sports pavilion provide ample opportunities for physical activity and enrichment.
School leaders Michelle Parsons and Jamie Thomson shared their pride in this remarkable achievement, stating, “This ‘Outstanding’ rating is a direct reflection of the hard work, commitment and passion of our dedicated staff, pupils and the wider school community. We are incredibly proud of the journey we’ve undertaken and the progress we’ve made. Moving forward, we are more determined than ever to continue providing the very best education and support for all our pupils.”
