A SOUTH Ockendon school has won praise from Ofsted inspectors for the rapid improvements it is making after standards slipped.
Although rating Bonnygate Primary as “requires improvement” overall, the inspection report said the Arisdale Avenue school was already “good” for leadership and management, pupil behaviour and early years provision.
At the previous inspection in late 2011, Bonnygate had been rated “good”, but since then there had been major changes.
The report states that although “teaching is improving rapidly, and much is good”, the quality varies and “the work teachers set does not always challenge pupils to think enough”.
It identifies numerous strengths, including that “school leaders and governors know the school well. They are ambitious and are taking the steps that are needed to improve teaching and learning”.
Thurrock Council Leader and education portfolio holder Cllr John Kent, said: “For the inspectors to say Bonnygate is ‘well on its way to becoming a good school’ is a testament to the work Sarah McHugh and her colleagues have done since she was appointed as the head.
“I know the school is well aware of what need to be done and that it has clear plans to make them happen.”
He added that he was sure “Bonnygate, working with the council, will get there”, saying: “I’m pleased to see Ofsted noted that as well as having good leadership and management, Thurrock Council was also praised for providing ‘effective support’.”
Head teacher Sarah McHugh said: “Obviously it’s disappointing to get a ‘requires improvement’ notice from Ofsted, but it was no surprise. I know we have made significant strides forward since I arrived here and that has been recognised.
“I would like to thank the whole school community for the effort that has been made.
“Now we have to continue the good work so that when Ofsted return they will find we are good across all areas … if not better still.”
