West Bromwich's Hargate Primary School 'outstanding in all areas'

The rare accolade has been achieved by Hargate Primary School in West Bromwich following an Ofsted inspection which took place on March 28 and 29.

Strong leadership, outstanding pupil progress and pupils behaviour at the school, which has 448 pupils on its roll, were all praised in the report.

Inspectors found that the school's motto, 'Forward together', is 'very appropriate' with leaders, staff and governors creating a 'vibrant school community'.

The headteacher and deputy headteacher were described as 'highly effective' in the report and governors and leaders at all levels have 'high aspirations for pupils and staff'.

The report also stated that pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities, including those admitted to the school's hearing impairment provision, make rapid progress.

Along with pupils in years one to six, who make 'outstanding progress in relation to their low starting points in reading, writing and mathematics'.

Behaviour of pupils is described as exceptional and inspectors found that they are 'keen to learn'.

Inspectors also praised staff for going 'above and beyond what is expect to ensure that pupils are safe'.

Two-year-old children in the 'Little Gaters' early years pre-school 'form trusting relationships with their key workers and are treated with love and care throughout their time in the setting', Ofsted found.

Teachers were also praised for enabling pupils to progress.

The report stated: "Teachers help pupils to make good and outstanding progress over time because they use the information they have about pupils’ achievement to plan activities that provide suitable challenge for pupils of different abilities.

"Learning support practitioners are well qualified and skilled to ensure that any additional support for pupils is pertinent and effectively builds on pupils’ previous learning."

The school was previously rated as good in 2012.

Inspectors also found the pupil premium funding was used 'very well to pinpoint and address any differences btween the achievement of disadvantaged pupils and that of other pupils who are not disadvantaged'.

Headteacher Andrew Orgill said: "I am very privileged to serve the children, community and staff at Hargate Primary School.

"The Ofsted outcome is all that they deserve. I'm so proud of the children and they are fortunate to be served by such a dedicated team of staff; who really do care.

"Now we will continue to work hard to get even better and to ensure the best for our children."