High Praise for Rivermead
During the Spring Term, four Ofsted inspectors came to visit our school.
The inspectors defined children' s behaviour as “impeccable”, and were impressed by the school’s "relentless commitment" to inclusion: “There is a relentless commitment from leaders to provide a wealth of opportunity for all. Wider opportunities such as extra-curricular clubs and trips are accessible to all.”
We secured four “Strong Standards” across the areas of Early Years, Attendance & Behaviour, Inclusion, and Personal Development & Wellbeing, which means that the school is working at a standard above what is expected by the Department for Education.
Three areas were judged as “Expected Standards” - Achievement, Curriculum and Teaching, and Leadership - which are at the professional standard expected.
Read the full report on the Ofsted website, or see the PDF below:
Inspectors praised the early years provision by saying : “Children thrive in Reception Year and make a flying start to their education. This is because the curriculum is well designed, ensuring that children build the necessary knowledge and skills to be ready for Year 1.” Inspectors also found that “In lessons, there is a palpable sense of enthusiasm and love of learning.[...] Lessons are extremely well taught and supported by high-quality interactions.”
Beyond the classroom, we were commended for our personal development programme, through a wide range of “well-considered activities (which) support pupils' artistic, musical, sporting and cultural development. The school ensures that there are many opportunities for pupils to be leaders. These roles are valued, and pupils take pride in their responsibilities.”
Pupils want to attend because staff make learning memorable and enjoyable.
A pupil said: “We love that everyone is kind, that the teachers explain things to us in detail, and we get opportunities to do things through clubs and trips. It is such a good place to come to everyday.”
97% of parents told Ofsted that they would recommend the school to a friend. A parent said: “We love Rivermead and are so glad we made the decision to send our children there. All the staff, at every level, are approachable, supportive, and genuinely welcoming. The Ofsted report reflected our thoughts on the school - at Rivermead every child is seen, valued, and supported. [...] The opportunities are amazing, with so much on offer for the children through sport, choir, clubs, leadership roles and class trips to support their learning.”
Headteacher Brian Prebble, said: “The school is very proud of the recent Ofsted report. It was a very rigorous process, and we believe the inspection team over the two days accurately assessed and captured the excellent provision, curriculum opportunities and the enjoyment experienced by the children each day at Rivermead. All staff care greatly about the children, ensuring they are supported, nurtured, and challenged to reach their potential. Seeing the work and efforts of the school acknowledged by Ofsted is very rewarding for all of us.”