We were delighted to welcome James McNeillie, Ofsted’s Regional Director for the South West and West Midlands, to The Rivers CofE Academy Trust to hear more about the work taking place across our schools and see it in action at Cranham Primary School.

Mr McNeillie began his visit at our central office, where he met our CEO Matt Meckin and members of our trust executive team. They shared the excellent work taking place across our schools to improve academic outcomes, including our approach to teaching and learning and how we work collaboratively across our schools to share expertise, strengthen practice and develop an extraordinary education for every child. The team also highlighted the importance Rivers places on enrichment opportunities, including the collaborative events that bring together pupils from across our schools, giving them opportunities to learn, perform, compete and take part in experiences as part of their wider Rivers’ community.

Following the meeting, Mr McNeillie travelled to Cranham Primary School, where Headteacher Alison Davies gave him a tour of the school.

During the visit, he was able to see pupils learning diligently and purposefully in classrooms and get a first-hand look at how the school's learning environment supports children.

The tour also included Cranham's new early years area, which was completed during the summer. The new development of classrooms has enabled the school to expand its nursery provision. It was fantastic to show Mr McNeillie how children are already benefiting from the new space and the opportunities it provides.

Matt Meckin, CEO of The Rivers CofE Academy Trust, said:

"We were delighted to welcome Mr McNeillie to our trust and have the opportunity to celebrate the work taking place across our schools. We are incredibly proud of our staff and the way they work together to continually strengthen teaching and learning, improve outcomes and provide exciting enrichment opportunities for our children.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity to share the work happening across our trust and demonstrate our commitment to ensuring every child receives an extraordinary education.