School criticised over ‘inadequate standard’

Great Preston CE Primary is said to have serious weaknesses with both the quality of teaching and achievement of pupils given the lowest possible rating.

However, the report does say that school leaders have made “an effective start” in tackling weaknesses in teaching.

Inspectors say pupils’ results are inadequate because teaching is not good enough to ensure they make sufficient progress.

It also warns that standards being achieved are below average and not high enough given pupils’ ability when they start at the school.

The school’s chairman of governors, Simon Brass, and head teacher Debra Simpson said they were disappointed with the inspectors’ judgment as pupils were now making good progess after significant staff changes over the past two years

In a joint statement they added: “Their report has highlighted a number of strengths at the school including pupils’ good behaviour.

“They noted that pupils feel safe and happy at school and are kind, friendly and form good relationships. They also stated that pupils show respect to others, make a positive contribution to the school environment and show high regard for staff. Staff and governors are working very hard as a team and with Leeds City Council to make rapid improvements for our children.”

Ofsted can give schools one of four ratings: outstanding, good, requires improvement or inadequate. Overall Great Preston is judged to be inadequate, as is the quality of its teaching and the attainment of pupils.

The report found that the leadership and management of the school requires improvement but that the behaviour and safety of pupils is good. It calls on the school to ensure all teaching is at least good in order to improve pupils’ progress in both maths and English – particularly in writing.