Eaton Primary School taken out of special measures by Ofsted

Eaton Primary School has achieved a 'Good' rating from Ofsted school inspectors after a visit last month.

The rural, single form entry school, which lies between Winsford and Tarporley, was put in special measures in 2019.

But after a thorough two-day inspection on November 21 and 22, it has been moved directly to 'Good' in overall effectiveness and all key areas. 

Inspectors and the Regional School commissioner’s office have commented on the unusually rapid progress of moving up two inspection grades.

Since the last inspection, the school has moved from being in the bottom five per cent of schools nationally for results, to being in the top 20 per cent - which is a huge achievement.

Inspectors found that: “Pupils flourish at this school.

"They feel happy in the knowledge that they are cared for and celebrated for their individual qualities.

Lorraine Skellon, head of school, with some of the children (Image: Eaton Primary School)

"Pupils enjoy learning and strive to meet the school’s high expectations of them.”  

The report also commented on the high-quality curriculum, the happy and polite children and the wide ranging extra-curricular opportunities.  

Lorraine Skellon, the head of school, said: "I am delighted with the outcome of the inspection and the hard work and dedication of our wonderful pupils and staff, with support from parents, governors and trustees, has been recognised by Ofsted. 

"We want to make sure that all our pupils are happy and receive the best possible education. I am pleased Ofsted can see how the whole school community has worked together and the positive impact we are having."

She added: "We look forward to building upon this. The report recognises the high quality of education that the children have had over a number of years.”

Eddisbury MP Edward Timpson said: "It is hugely encouraging to see Eaton Primary School achieve such an emphatic turnaround and to be providing local children with a good education and wider school experience.

"This will give parents and the wider community both a sense of pride and confidence for the future."

Eaton Primary is part of the Sandstone Trust, along with Tarporley High School, Tarvin Primary School and Weaverham High School.

During the visit, Ofsted reviewed the school’s strengths and areas of development, talking to pupils, staff, governors and trustees. 

Many of the school’s pupils reside outside of Eaton and travel the short distance from Winsford, Tarporley and surrounding villages – with parents appreciating the small, single aged classes. 

The school’s approach to early learning was praised, as was their success in developing children’s reading.

Inspectors also acknowledged pupils’ personal development as a vital part of the school’s work.

They gave praise to pupils’ conduct adding: “Pupils are polite and helpful.

"They make the extra effort to have pleasant conversations with others.” 

Jason Lowe, CEO of the Sandstone Trust, said: “This is a great achievement, particularly given the challenges of recent years, and it is testament to the hard work of the leadership team, the staff and the whole school community.

"We know children thrive at Eaton Primary School and Ofsted agree with us.”