School making 'rapid progress'

Ofsted's Peter Clifton said the school was making good progress with many positive features about the way it educated its 246 pupils.

The Church Lane school was placed in special measures in October 2002 under a previous headteacher. It was removed from the status in February 2004.

The latest inspection was the first since then and highlighted the improvements which continued to be made. Mr Clifton said current head Chris Silk was in charge of a school where the overall standard of work was satisfactory with some good features.

He singled out eight aspects of the school's work for particular praise. These included:

l good care, support and guidance given to the pupils;

l improvements in achievements and standards;

l effective feedback which ensures chidlren know how to improve their work;

l good progress made by pupils with special educational needs; and

l very effective leadership.

Mr Clifton said more work needed to be done to improve the children's speaking and listening and scientific inquiry skills as well as sharpening the challenge for more able pupils.

An inspection also carried out for the National Society for Promoting Religious Education to reflect the school's status as a church school was overwhelmingly positive as well.

It stated: 'There is a strong Christian ethos of care that is reflected in all areas of school life and the staff team, with very effective leadership, provide a relevant and challenging education for all the pupils.'

The national society would like to see the children more involved in worship.

Mr Silk said he believed the reports were an accurate reflection of the work of the school.

'I am very happy with the reports, which highlight the progress we have made.

'In particular, the major impact we are having on improving the children's work and the recognition of staff who effectively work well together,' he stated.

The school's chairman of governors, Jez Prior, commented: 'The report reflects the good team work and the progress the school has made.

'Everyone is determined that South Bersted will continue to develop in order to provide the best possible education for the children.

'The governors would like to thank everyone involved with the school for their dedication.'