'Close to perfect' Nottinghamshire school rated outstanding in all areas by Ofsted

A Nottinghamshire school where pupils experience “life in all its fullness” has been praised for its “rich” curriculum. The Archbishop Cranmer Church of England Academy, on School, Lane, Aslockton, has been graded ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Inspectors visited the school on December 6 and 7, 2023, and found it was at the top of their ratings scheme. This includes the quality of education, personal development, early years provision, behaviour and attitudes, and the leadership and management.

This was the first Ofsted inspection since the school became an academy in 2014, but prior to this, it had been rated Oustanding in 2009 when it was the Archbishop Cranmer CofE Primary School. It is stated in the report that “pupils speak very highly of their school. They describe it as ‘a school of opportunities.'”

People standing outside to spell Outstanding from an aerial view

At the time of the inspection last month, the school had 205 pupils enrolled from ages four to 11 years old, and is part of the Aspire Multi-Academy Trust. The report goes on to state: “Staff identify pupils’ additional needs with pinpoint accuracy.

“They work closely with parents and other organisations to make sure that the support that pupils get is just right. When pupils need to secure important early knowledge, this is woven into their day.

“Staff skilfully adapt their teaching, and all pupils learn together successfully. As a result, pupils with SEND make strong progress.”

It continued: “The school is proud of its ‘beyond expectations’ curriculum, which is planned with meticulous insight. Knowledge is carefully chosen in every subject.

“This content also supports pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Opportunities for pupils to learn about fundamental British values are deeply embedded.”

The Headteacher, Melanie Stevens, says she is really proud of the school’s achievement. She said; “Our Ofsted report reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire school community.

“We are delighted to be recognised as outstanding in all areas, and this achievement is testament to the exceptional efforts of our staff, students, parents, carers and governors.”

She continued: “We were able to showcase our curriculum over the two days, and the pupils articulated their learning so well.”

In their final feedback, the school explained that inspectors commented: “It would be wrong to suggest that any school is perfect, but this school comes as close as it gets.” Mrs Stevens concluded: “We are overjoyed with the recognition from Ofsted. We invite everyone to come and visit us – we still have places available!

“Our doors are open, and we look forward to sharing the excellence that defines Archbishop Cranmer C of E Academy.”