LESS than three years after Wellesley Park Primary School in Wellington went into ‘special measures’ it has received a ‘good’ overall rating from school inspectors.

The school, which has 326 pupils aged four to 11, converted to an academy in April, 2013, and when Ofsted inspectors last visited, it was judged ‘inadequate’ overall.

Inspectors spent two days at the school last month talking to pupils, observing lessons and hearing about life at Wellesley Park, and their report was published this week. Headteacher Lindsay Gabriel said: “We are extremely proud of the report and the good grading we have achieved as a result of the hard work, enthusiasm and dedication of all staff, governors, parents and children.”

The report highlighted that the headteacher for working tirelessly and being “aspirational for every pupil”.

The inspectors said that the number of children making more-than-expected progress and achieving the highest levels of attainment was above the national average.

They also highlighted the broad curriculum where “activities such as French lessons, opportunities for learning outdoors, festival celebrations, music and drama performances enable pupils to gain a broad range of experiences and flourish.”

The report added: “Pupils are polite, well-mannered and their behaviour is good. They are enthusiastic about learning…This positive attitude helps pupils learn well across many subjects.”

The inspectors were pleased to see the quality and large quantity of sport available to pupils where opportunities include tennis, football, tag rugby, badminton, zumba and fencing.

Early Years teaching received particular praise with inspectors pointing to the highly effective teachers, who have a high level of understanding about the early development of children. The children’s activities, both indoor and outdoor, are tailored to their abilities and interests. The result was that in 2015 the children leaving Reception class had achieved outcomes above the national average.

Parents who spoke to the inspectors were overwhelmingly positive about improvements at the school. They said staff were approachable staff and that nothing was too much trouble. One parent described how the academy had ‘lifted and transformed’ the self-confidence of her child. All the parents who responded to the survey reported that they would recommend the academy to others.

Anyone who has children starting school next September who would like to meet the school’s Early Years teachers should contact Wellesley Park to arrange a visit. The school also has a handful of places for children in other year groups – contact the school (01823 664876 or [email protected]rset.

gov.uk) or visit www.wellesleyparkschool.com to find out more.