Barlestone Church of England Primary School, part of the Rise Multi-Academy Trust, has proudly maintained its high standards, as confirmed by a recent Ofsted inspection conducted on 21 and 22 January 2025. The report highlights the school’s commitment to providing a high-quality education, with pupils enjoying a positive and safe school experience and demonstrating enthusiasm for their learning. 

 

The inspection commended the school's well-structured curriculum, which ensures pupils learn the key knowledge expected for their age. The reading, writing, and mathematics curriculum was praised for its ambition, enabling pupils to become fluent and confident readers and develop a strong understanding of key mathematical concepts. Staff provide regular opportunities for pupils to access rich vocabulary and diverse texts, and pupils enjoy choosing books from the library or those linked to the sounds they have been practicing in class. 

 

The report also noted the school’s effective support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Reasonable adjustments and targeted support are in place, allowing these pupils to successfully access the curriculum. The school works closely with external professionals to meet pupils’ individual needs well. 

 

From early years upwards, pupils take an active role in school life, with numerous opportunities for leadership positions such as sports leaders, school councillors, and members of the ‘Christian Ethos Team’. Pupils also benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sporting festivals, performances, and educational visits. 

 

Headteacher Claire Murray shared her thoughts: “We are incredibly proud of this achievement, which reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire school community”. 

The report also mentioned that the Rise Multi-Academy Trust provides robust oversight of the school, ensuring that staff and pupil well-being remains a priority. The trust supports staff by providing access to ongoing professional development, which benefits pupils as staff share good practice with and from other schools within the trust. With trust support, pupils also access a range of wider opportunities that they may not otherwise receive. 

 

Dave Ellison-Lee, CEO of the Rise Multi-Academy Trust, expressed his pride in the school’s achievements: “We are delighted with the Ofsted report, which reflects the dedication and hard work of the staff, pupils, and the entire school community. Barlestone Church of England Primary School continues to deliver an excellent standard of education, fostering an environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.” 

 

For more information about Barlestone Church of England Primary School, please visit: https://www.barlestoneprimaryschool.co.uk/ or to read the full report click here (https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50270354)