Staff and pupils are "over the moon" after a Stevenage school scooped an 'outstanding'  Ofsted rating following a recent inspection. 

During the two-day inspection at Letchmore Infants' and Nursery School Ofsted described the "exceptionality" they witnessed across the school.

Co-Headteachers, Jo Harding and Eleanor Williams, said they are "over the moon" with the result.

They added: "It is a truly magical place to learn and work. We are so grateful to our team for their dedication and passion – they never shy away from a challenge and make leading Letchmore a dream job.” 

'Outstanding'! Staff celebrate their excellent Ofsted rating.'Outstanding'! Staff celebrate their excellent Ofsted rating. (Image: Letchmore Infant's and Nursery School)

Inspectors observed lessons at the Letchmore Road school and undertook a deep dive into the provision of early reading, mathematics, and music.

Ofsted said: “Most pupils achieve very well, thanks to the school’s high expectations of them.

“Pupils are extremely proud of their school, they run through the gates every 
morning, excited to play and learn in the school’s supportive environment.”

The education watchdog also noted how the school’s values “permeate everything that happens here. Pupils learn what they mean, for example equality and diversity.”

Meanwhile, the “teachers observe pupils closely, using pupils’ responses to 
questions and recorded work to check how well they are learning". Lessons are adjusted as needed which sees pupils achieve increasingly well - sometimes "exceptionally".

The report also highlighted: “Pupils’ personal development is extremely well catered for. The school has designed an exceptional programme of enrichment that includes visitors, trips and themed ‘inspiration days’.”

(Image: Letchmore Infants' and Nursery School)

The school was also praised for its "robust systems" for identifying pupils with SEND.

Ofsted added: "Most pupils with SEND learn the same curriculum as their peers, with adaptations, and for those pupils with a high level of need, the school provides them with a bespoke curriculum.

"This supports these pupils with SEND to make strong progress”.

Chair of the school’s Governing Board, Sally Davis, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone at the school on this 'outstanding' rating and glowing report.

"We aim to give every pupil at Letchmore the best possible education and foster a love of learning that sets them up for success in life.

"I am delighted for everyone connected to the school that we have been recognised in this way as delivering on our vision.

"The inspection feedback also encapsulates how much of a team effort goes into making Letchmore the special place it is. I know how much hard work and dedication it takes from our pupils, parents, staff, leaders and governors to create a school experience like this.

"I hope all concerned are rightly proud of the part they have played in this achievement.”