School is taken out of special measures

Officials from the education watchdog, Ofsted, visited Foulstone School of Creative Arts in Darfield earlier this month and decided sufficient improvements had been made. The school was placed in special measures in January 2010, but according to senior staff had received “very positive” interim reports throughout this year.

In a statement released yesterday, joint headteachers Steve Ely and Sharon Bell said: “The last year has seen a fantastic team effort from all connected with the school.

“Pupils, staff, governors, parents and the wider community have really pulled together as a team to work concertedly to drive the school forward. We are delighted that our hard work and progress has been recognised.”

The chairman of the school’s governing body, Bert Beaumont, added: “Governors and staff receiving the feedback were ecstatic. A colossal team effort has made a real difference to the quality of education being provided for our children.”

The full written report, including areas for further action will be published on the Ofsted website before Christmas. Both headteachers said they recognised that the Ofsted success was “only a first step” in their move towards achieving even higher standards.

Their statement continued: “We’re thrilled the school’s achievement has been recognised, but it is only a beginning.

“In the move to the new Foulstone/Wombwell Advanced Learning Centre the whole school community will continue to work together to ensure we end the year as the best school we can possibly be.”

Year nine pupils Amber Scarfe added: “It’s like a weight is lifted from our shoulders. Now everybody knows we’re a fantastic school.”