Cherry Orchard Primary School and Pre-school, located in the heart of Worcester, is proud to celebrate significant improvements in education quality after being awarded a very well-deserved ‘GOOD’ judgement from Ofsted. In particular, the school are exceptionally proud of being awarded ‘OUTSTANDING’ for behaviour and attitudes.

 

The inspection team were delighted with the behaviour of pupils; ’Pupils behave exceptionally well. They are kind, empathetic and show a readiness to learn.’

‘It is an exciting time to be part of the Cherry Orchard community. Parents, staff and pupils agree that there have been significant improvements to the quality of education and feel proud to be part of this school.’

 

From inadequate to a strong position

Cherry Orchard joined The Rivers CofE Academy Trust as a sponsored academy in 2021 with an Ofsted judgement of inadequate and special measures. Karen Banford was appointed as headteacher from another school in the trust and has led the Cherry Orchard team brilliantly, seeing through a complete transformation in the quality of education and wider experiences for pupils.

 

The report recognised that, ‘improving academic standards has been a key priority’ and that, ‘there has been significant change at Cherry Orchard in recent years.’

 

Inspectors acknowledged, ‘a strong partnership between the school and trust has ensured that there has been a considered approach to school improvement.’

 

Preparing children for their education journey

Inspectors found that the school prepares children well for the next step of their educational journey. In pre-school it was reported that ‘children get off to a good start’ and in Reception, ‘children demonstrate that they are increasingly ready for the step into key stage 1.’ From the first day, children learn to read and ‘are doing so with increasing accuracy.’ From key stage 1 children are ‘reading fluently and ready to develop their comprehension skills.’ In preparation for high school, ‘pupils now leave the school having reached the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics.’

 

Overall, the report found that ‘pupils are demonstrating a deeper understanding of what they learn.’

 

Furthermore, the school offers a range of extracurricular activities that enhance the learning experience. Opportunities to support charities and ‘trips to new places’ are noted as ways the school brings learning to life.

 

The report highlights that pupils are attending school more regularly, and effective systems are in place to improve attendance. Pupils value their education and show that they want to do well.

 

Team effort

The Good Ofsted judgement is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the staff and school community. Inspectors recognised that; ‘There is a strong team spirit at this school. Staff feel that they are well supported.’

 

The school has successfully created a culture of high expectations and shared determination to make sure that every pupil fulfils their potential. ‘Senior leaders demonstrate that there is ‘no ceiling’ on what pupils at this school can achieve.’

 

The positive relationships pupils have with the staff contribute to their happiness and safety in school. ‘Staff take notice when pupils need support, both academically and emotionally, and do all they can to help them.’ 

 

Karen Banford, Headteacher is delighted with the judgement, "I am absolutely delighted that the OFSTED inspection team have recognised the fantastic education being delivered at Cherry Orchard Primary School. We have a hugely talented staff team and the most amazing pupils and families, and this successful Ofsted visit is a testament to the collective effort of everyone involved. I completely agree with the report, which says it is an exciting time to be part of the Cherry Orchard community".

 

CEO at The Rivers CofE Academy Trust, Matt Meckin said, “School leaders and staff have worked brilliantly to raise standards and improve experiences for children. Cherry Orchard is a great community school and has an exciting future ahead.”

 

Cherry Orchard Primary School and Pre-School are hosting open events for prospective families after Easter break. To arrange a tour then please visit the school website and click ‘book a tour’: https://www.cherryorchard-pri.worcs.sch.uk/.

 

 

Ofsted report: Cherry Orchard Primary School - OFSTED (cherryorchard-pri.worcs.sch.uk)