Glowing Ofsted Report

Education inspectors have praised the “impressive community spirit” at a Teesside primary school that has again been rated as ‘Outstanding’.

The latest Ofsted inspection at Wolviston Primary School has led to ‘Outstanding’ ratings in Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, and Early Years Provision, with ‘Good’ ratings in Quality of Education, and Leadership and Management.

Inspectors particularly praised the role played by the pupil-led ‘Wolviston Wolf Pack’— a group of children who design games and play with younger classmates to encourage friendships and teamwork.

The report – the first since the school joined the Prince Regent Street Trust – noted: “This helps pupils of all ages to mix confidently. It also contributes to the impressive community spirit throughout the school.

“Pupils love receiving rewards certificates from the head boy and girl. They are proud to collect ‘wolf tokens’ or take home ‘Wolfie’, the school mascot.”

Susan Hawes, headteacher, said: “I am delighted with the report. It is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Wolviston Primary School community, recognising that the school is very much at the ‘heart of their village’.

“It is a privilege to work alongside our small staff team, who strive tirelessly to ensure the children in our care receive a unique educational experience.

“While the report gives us much to be proud of, we remain focused on our school improvement journey and on continuing to strengthen the educational experiences that our children deserve.”

The report spotlighted improvements the school has made to its curriculum, saying: “Experienced staff with strong subject knowledge bring the curriculum to life. Pupils are enthusiastic about their learning. They enjoy connecting learning to local history. This includes studying the impact of the Second World War on nearby towns.”

Beyond academic subjects, inspectors also recognised Wolviston Primary’s strong emphasis on personal development and wellbeing: “Pupils enjoy exceptional pastoral care blended with high academic standards. Pupils achieve well. This is evident in published outcomes.

“Pupils’ personal development is at the heart of the school’s work. The school teaches pupils to look after their own mental health and that of others.”

Julia Armstrong, CEO of the Prince Regent Street Trust, said: “I am so proud of the staff and leaders, and this is another wonderful success story for our Trust. Everyone at Wolviston Primary School should be so proud of all they have achieved!”

Keith Morrison, the trust’s Director of School Improvement, said: “I am always struck by the warm, nurturing atmosphere that leaders and staff have created at Wolviston Primary, as well as the staff and leaders’ drive for continuous improvement, and the laughter and happiness that are integral parts of the school’s ethos.”

Kay Steven, Chair of Trustees, added: “I would like to thank the wonderful staff, children and parents, for their ongoing support of Wolviston Primary School.

“The leaders and staff have worked incredibly hard to ensure pupils at the school receive the best possible start to their educational and life journey, and it is fantastic that their achievements have been recognised.”