Ofsted rates Crabtree and Wood End schools as 'outstanding'

Crabtree Junior School and Wood End School have both been awarded Ofsted's highest rating following inspections in November 2023.

Crabtree Junior was praised for its "rich, ambitious curriculum" and the "impressive knowledge" and behaviour of its pupils.

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Meanwhile, Wood End School was commended for providing a "broad and ambitious curriculum" that goes “above and beyond” in preparing pupils for the next stage of their education. 

Crabtree Junior School

Students at Crabtree Junior School. (Image: Ivy Learning Group)

Ofsted praised Crabtree Junior School's leadership opportunities, pupil behaviour and curriculum.

The report states: "A plethora of opportunities to be leaders are hungrily accepted by pupils, who want to make their school the best it can be.

"They thrive in roles such as diversity leaders, play leaders or peer mediators.

"These opportunities support pupils to become active and responsible citizens."

On the behaviour of the school's pupils, the report continues: "Pupils behave in an exemplary manner. They have strikingly positive attitudes to their learning.

"They love sharing talents, be they musical, sporting or teaching others how to speak another language."

Lastly, the school's curriculum was described as "precisely" and "coherently" designed.

Emma Simmons, executive headteacher of Crabtree, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of this exceptional result.

"The children’s love of their school shone through and the way in which they proudly showcased Crabtree and everything they do was incredible.

“The school has a fantastic staff team, who all go above and beyond to provide the children with the very best experiences.

"The lead inspector commented on the pupil, staff and parent surveys, saying that he had never seen results like it.”

Wood End School

How to Train Your Dragon author Cressida Cowell opening Wood End School's new learning hub. (Image: Wood End School)

Wood End School was commended for providing a "broad and ambitious" curriculum that goes “above and beyond” in preparing pupils for the next stage of their education. 

The report states: "Pupils attending this school get an exceptional learning experience.

"They are motivated, hardworking and demonstrate a real thirst for knowledge."

The school's attitude towards diversity was also praised by the Ofsted report, which read: "Mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs are demonstrated by all
pupils. They want to learn from others.

"Pupils engaged enthusiastically in a Diwali workshop involving members of the school community.

"Fundamental British values are revisited regularly. As a result, pupils are exceptionally well prepared for life in modern Britain."

Finally, pupil development was touched upon, with a range of clubs and development opportunities offered.

The report adds: "Pupils’ personal development is at the heart of the school.

"There is a strong shared vision of excellence beyond academic achievement."

Richard Boulton, headteacher at Wood End School, commented: “This report is a testament to the ongoing excellent education children receive day in day out, year in year out from our very talented team of teachers and support staff.

"This is combined with our highly motivated pupils and supportive parent body and governors. We are all very proud.”