St Benet’s MAT News

We congratulate Executive Headteacher Andrew Phoenix and all his staff on their commitment and hard work, which has seen the school garner praise from the Inspectors.

A selection of quotes from the final report are published here:

* Pupils enjoy coming to this welcoming school that is at the heart of the community. The school expects the best of all pupils. This is evident in the way pupils behave well in class and work hard. Pupils live up to the school’s vision of ‘shine as bright as the sky’ through their achievements, the extensive range of responsibilities they take on and their willingness to be kind to one another.

* A range of trips and visits link well with the curriculum in school, helping to deepen learning. Pupils learn the importance of staying safe online and eating a healthy and balanced diet. Playground ‘buddies’ support pupils to play happily together at breaktimes. The outdoor area is rich with opportunities for pupils to experience adventurous play, study in the woods or sit quietly in the contemplation area.

* Pupils’ behaviour in and around school is polite and kind. Older pupils take pride in supporting younger pupils to feel happy and safe. In class, pupils concentrate well, work hard and engage positively in class discussion. Where behaviour falls below expectations, staff respond quickly with appropriate strategies.

* Trust leaders and school governors provide effective challenge and support. They have a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and what needs to improve. They check that the changes needed are being implemented. Staff feel valued and appreciated by school leaders. They know their well-being and workload are carefully considered when changes are made.

Executive Headteacher Andrew Phoenix adds:  “We are delighted with the outcome of the Ofsted inspection. The process was collaborative and gave an opportunity for us to showcase the school; the report reflects a really clear picture of Tacolneston and highlights the strengths and successes of the school.”

“One aspect that is mentioned is the ‘effective challenge and support’ provided by the governors and Trust, and that ‘staff feel valued and appreciated’ by leaders in school and in the Trust.  As Headteacher, I must say the support we have had from St Benet’s has been nothing short of excellent – guidance on how to move our schools forward,priorities to focus on and the support to achieve this – not just in the context of the Ofsted process but in our longer-term journey as well.”

“Having the St Benet’s central team work with us, and fellow schools within St Benet’s to support us has been brilliant.”