Ofsted praises ‘wonderful gem’ of a Gainsborough school

Benjamin Adlard Primary School in Gainsborough, part of Anthem Schools Trust, is celebrating after Ofsted inspectors described it as a “wonderful gem of a school that pupils feel incredibly happy and proud to attend”.

The report, which follows an inspection in March, notes that most of the pupils at Benjamin Adlard are disadvantaged, have special educational needs and/or disabilities or are known to social care, but thrive and achieve because of the expert care and high-quality education they receive. 

The pupils impressed the inspectors who noted that they are “excited and ambitious for their futures. They are an absolute credit to the community.” Inspectors commented on how the children arrive at school “with a smile” and describe Benjamin Adlard as a “wonderful place of learning”. 

The report says that the school’s classrooms “fizz with pupils' enthusiasm and thirst for knowledge” and are “calm and magnificent places of learning”.

The school’s “carefully designed” curriculum is praised for its breadth and balance; teachers’  “meticulous planning” means that pupils learn well across every subject. 

The school is commended for its record in managing attendance, with staff “absolutely relentless” in their efforts to make sure that pupils are in school. They manage pupils’ behaviour “with the precision of a well‑oiled machine”. 

The early years provision at the school offers the children a “superb start to their education” and inclusion is “at the heart of this school”, with leaders maintaining “a laser sharp focus” to make sure every child  achieves their very best.

Overall, under the new inspection framework, inspectors say that Benjamin Adlard is of a “Strong standard” in an impressive five of the six categories assessed.

Luke Lovelidge, Headteacher at Benjamin Adlard Primary School, said: “We are incredibly proud of this Ofsted report which reflects so well our vision to be an exceptional school that delivers an exemplary quality of education.

“Our values of aspiration, independence and resilience are at the heart of everything we do and it is very rewarding to see the inspectors describe our pupils as ‘an absolute credit to the community’.

“This report reflects the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our children and the unwavering support of our families and I would like to thank everyone who helps to make Benjamin Adlard the amazing school that it is.”

David Hatchett, Chief Executive of Anthem Schools Trust, said: “This glowing report is a joy to read and a powerful reflection of what can be achieved when a clear vision is brought to life through strong values and collaboration.

“At Anthem, we are committed to creating ambitious and successful schools in which every child thrives and this outcome shows that vision in action.

“Congratulations to everyone at Benjamin Adlard, a ‘wonderful gem’ of a school indeed.”