TWO Thurrock primary schools have impressed Ofsted inspectors in recent weeks.
Both Graham James, in The Sorrells, Stanford-le-Hope and Deneholm, in Culford Road, Grays, have moved from Satisfactory to Good in their latest reports.
Thurrock Council’s portfolio holder for education, Cllr Oliver Gerrish, said: “We have made no secret of our ultimate aim of having every single school in Thurrock rated good or better by the inspectors and I would like to congratulate all involved at both schools for their hard work and success.”
He added: “As has been said many times in recent weeks, the new inspection regime is far tougher than the previous one, and therefore the schools’ achievements are all the more impressive.”
Graham James’ inspection was on 16 and 17 January, and the inspectors found it was Good in every category bar one – the described the behaviour and safety of pupils as Outstanding.
Denholm was the focus of Ofsted on 17 and 18 January where inspectors said: “Leadership has improved considerably at all levels. Senior leaders have a clear vision for further improvement. Governance, previously a weak element, is now good.”
Cllr Gerrish added: “Of course the reports highlight a few areas for the schools to focus on – what report doesn’t – but both Deneholm and Graham James are helping Thurrock move forward so that when the new high-powered jobs become available at places like London Gateway and the new Lakeside, local people have the ability and aspiration to get them.”
Stanford and Corringham ward councillor Phil Anderson added “I congratulate Graham James school on their achievement, becoming the latest school in Stanford and Corringham to be categorised as good by OFSTED.
“It is particularly pleasing to see ‘behaviour and safety of pupils’ graded as an outstanding feature – the top grade. This result reflects the hard work of the Headteacher and staff, the governors, the pupils and their parents, all of whom should be proud.”
