Wolverhampton's Long Knowle Primary School celebrates inspection result

Long Knowle Primary School, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, was judged to be 'good' following a visit by Ofsted last month.

Inspectors praised the 'clear and ambitious' vision of the headteacher, senior leaders and governors which has led to 'marked improvements in teaching and pupils' achievement'.

The inspection took place at the 240-pupils school on January 19 and 20.

The school was rated 'good' in all five review areas, including the effectiveness of leadership and management, quality of teaching, learning and assessment, personal development, behaviour and welfare, outcomes for pupils and early years provision.

The school had been judged as requiring improvement at its last inspection.

Headteacher Karen Elliot said: "I am so pleased with the outcome of the Ofsted inspection. It is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the whole staff team at Long Knowle and to the children and parents who support our drive to make the school the best it can be."

The report said: "The headteacher, with the support of other senior leaders and governors, has worked with dogged determination to change the school's culture from one that was content with things as they were to one where there are high expectations of pupils and staff.

This process has not been without challenges, but the impact shows in the clear improvements in the quality of teaching, in pupils' behaviour, their attendance and their achievement."

Inspectors added: "The quality of teaching has improved a great deal since the school was last inspected. This is because teachers have responded well to the higher expectations set out in the school's policy for teaching and learning.

"They have been consistent in implementing the school's agreed procedures, for example for assessment and for feedback to pupils. Routines are now well established and pupils know what to expect."

Education boss, Councillor Claire Darke, said: "This is a very pleasing inspection report, which shows the great progress that has been made at Long Knowle Primary School in recent months.

"I'm delighted that the hard work of the headteacher, her leadership team, the pupils and the governing board has been recognised, and I am sure parents will join me in congratulating them on this achievement.

"Everyone at Long Knowle Primary School has worked well with the council to secure the changes and improvements required, and we will continue to support the leadership team to continue their good progress and further raise standards for pupils over the coming months."