“Pupils are proud of St Francis Academy and like contributing to the school community” – that’s the words of Ofsted inspectors who have rated the Ventnor school as ‘good’ following a recent inspection.
St Francis Catholic and Church of England Primary Academy has made the significant leap from ‘inadequate’ to ‘good’ in just a single step as a result of the recent watchdog visit.
Principal Alex Augustus has said:
“We are delighted with the outcome of the two-day Ofsted inspection. It recognises the hard work and dedication of staff and children at our school and is a big step towards realising our vision of providing an ‘outstanding’ education for the children and the families of Ventnor and the surrounds.”
Mr Augustus has acknowledged the support of his new Trust, The Diocese of Chichester Academy Trust, who were praised in the report with inspectors saying:
“Leaders at the school feel very well-supported in the multi-academy trust. Sharply focused support has helped leaders prioritise and secure improvements in the curriculum. The transition board have strongly challenged and effectively supported leaders about the quality of education, especially for pupils with SEND.”
The school leaders are said to have been especially delighted with the comments about the children; in particular:
“Pupils behave well. Leaders have ensured staff have high expectations and a consistent and positive approach to manage behaviour. From Reception, children learn how their behaviour can affect others” and “this is an inclusive school.”
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They rightly acknowledge the hard work and skills of the staff at the school. This was evaluated by Ofsted as:
“All the adults at St Francis share the same determination for all pupils to achieve well, including those who need extra support. Central to this ambition is their successful work to build pupils’ confidence and resilience. As a result, pupils are proud of their learning and achieve well in all subjects.”
Mr Talbot, the CEO of the new Multi Academy Trust working with the school said:
“Mr Augustus and the whole staff team have fully embraced the support we can offer with our network of 14 schools and deserve every success. It was delightful to recently lead worship at the school and we were in no doubt that this school is on a very strong trajectory. We are so pleased for all those connected with the school to secure the ‘good’ judgement. All credit goes to the school.”
