As part of their report, inspectors noted that “pupils feel enormously proud to belong to this compassionate school” and “parents and carers consistently praise the efforts staff make to help their children achieve, belong and thrive.”

It was also found that leaders have “worked purposefully and effectively to raise aspirations for what pupils can achieve” and ensure that they are “ready for the next stages in their education”.

Following the inspection, All Saints CE Junior School was judged to be meeting the ‘expected standard’ across all areas. Under Ofsted’s newest framework, this means the school is meeting national expectations in all judgement areas. Safeguarding was also found to be effective.

This is in stark contrast to Ofsted’s visit to the school four years ago. In 2022, the school, was rated inadequate and placed into special measures by the education watchdog.

After joining Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust as a sponsored academy the following year, the school’s improvement journey began, with access to robust leadership and teaching and learning expertise, as well as ongoing investment in its facilities.

Rob Harris, Executive Headteacher at All Saints CE Junior School, said: “This report captures the huge transformation that has taken place at our wonderful school over the past few years.

“I am so proud that we champion the importance of providing the very best for our pupils, ensuring they feel happy, cared for and are equipped to achieve incredible things.

“That progress would not have been possible without the dedication of our staff, pupils and families.”

Other highlights of the report include:

• Leaders have “put in place a suitably broad, ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum.”
• “Overall, pupils achieve well…positive and improving key stage 2 national outcomes, including for disadvantaged pupils reflects this.”
• “Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities progress through the curriculum well from their starting points.”
• “Pupils behave well. They have positive attitudes towards their learning.”
• “Every morning, pupils walk into school with happy smiles and a respectful outlook which permeates into all areas of their learning.”
• “Pastoral support is effective…warm relationships between pupils and staff underpin a nurturing culture.”
• “Leaders ensure there is a wealth of experiences which help pupils to broaden their horizons. For example, the musical and sporting offers.”
• “Staff feel valued and there is a real team spirit...[they] benefit from a well-structured professional development programme.”

Inclusion was also identified as a strength of the school. Inspectors found that “leaders promote a school culture which celebrates diversity and values every pupil” and that pupils with additional needs are well-supported, with tailored interventions helping them to engage fully in school life. 

Sharon Mullins, CEO at Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust, added: “I am delighted that Ofsted have recognised the incredible turnaround that has taken place at All Saints CE Junior School.

“Of course, it is incredibly important that pupils are now achieving the outcomes that they deserve, but it has all been made possible because of the nurturing and caring community that has been established here – for pupils, their families and our dedicated staff.

“My congratulations go to the entire All Saints team on this brilliant achievement.”

All Saints CE Junior School currently has places available in certain year groups. To find out more or book a tour, please visit their website: www.allsaintsmaidenhead.org.uk

Image credit: Maidenhead Advertiser