Darnhall Primary School retains its 'Good' Ofsted rating

The education watchdog's inspectors visited Darnhall Nursery and Primary School in Winsford at the start of October and have published their report.

After first being rated 'Good' in 2013, the Sandyhill Road school has now maintained that rating for decade.

Sarah Tomlinson, who joined the school in 2007 before becoming head teacher in 2012, has lead Darnhall through all three of its 'Good' inspections.

She said: "I am blessed to work in a school like Darnhall and within such a supportive town.

"This inspection was tough and intense. I am so proud of our children who are great ambassadors and my very hardworking and special staff team.

“We will continue to grow as a school in our development and are always recognised by external visitors as a school who never stands still. Thank you to our families for all their love and support."

William Jones and Darren Jones, left, taking part in physical development, with Jacob Burtinshaw and Ella Garner, right, enjoying some reading time (Image: Darnhall Primary School)Chairman of governors, Richard Strachan added: "The governors are committed to continual improvement and ensuring Darnhall is the school of popular choice for our community.

"Great progress has been made on this ambition with the school growing significantly since 2018.

"The latest Ofsted inspection confirms that despite the huge national challenges of recent years the school has achieved high standards and delivers a fantastic experience for all our children.

"This could not be achieved without dedicated and committed staff and I would like to pay tribute to the continuing hard work and professionalism of all the teaching and support staff.

Piper Evans, left, taking a closer look at objects and Olivia Baker, right, having fun with some vet roleplay (Image: Darnhall Primary School)

"The relationship between school and families is vital to building a successful school.

"I would like to thank the families of Darnhall for engaging with the school so positively and supporting our children to give them the best start in life. Darnhall is a not just a school; it is an excellent and supportive learning community we can all be very proud of."

Darnhall was rated 'Good' in all but one category, including education quality, behaviour, personal development and leadership.

The school's early years provision was judged as 'requires improvement', however work has already taken place to enhance its delivery of the early years curriculum, including resourcing a new reception classroom.

In their report, the inspectors said: "Pupils are proud to attend this school which sits firmly at the heart of its community.

Jessica Wakefield working hard (Image: Darnhall Primary School)"They know they are valued and everyone is welcome in their school. The school has high expectations of pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

"Pupils work hard and try their best. The atmosphere in school is calm and purposeful. Relationships are respectful. Pupils in key stage one and two achieve well.

"Parents and carers hold the school in high regard. They said their children, including those with SEND, thrive. The school goes above and beyond to engage parents in their children’s education.

The school actively promotes pupils’ personal development. It has thought carefully about the opportunities it provides beyond the curriculum."

William Newton with mum Stephanie Ditchfield, right, and Great Nanna Victoria Ditchfield, left, at the parents and carers Phonics Show (Image: Darnhall Primary School)

Stephanie Bratt, a parent of a year one child, said: "I wish every school could have a Mrs T [Mrs Tomlinson].

"I just want her to know how much she is respected and appreciated. She always has the children's best interests in mind and deals with things perfectly.

"Her passion is so inspiring."