We are a good school!

Children, staff and governors at Easington Church of England Primary Academy have received the best Christmas present – news that the school is now officially classed as ‘Good’. 

Ofsted inspectors spent two days last month at the school and it previously had a ‘Requires Improvement’ rating.

Now, following a rigorous inspection, it has been upgraded to ‘Good’ in all areas. 

“Especially coming at this time of year, this is excellent news for everyone connected with our school and is something we should celebrate,” said headteacher Mrs Gill Pepper. “We have been on such a journey since the school joined Ebor Academy Trust in 2017 and now all the hard work of so many people have finally been rewarded.” 

Parents were informed of the good news this week, only a few days before Christmas. 

Inspectors say in the report: “Pupils belong to a school that sits within the heart of their community. The school provides pupils with an environment where they feel safe and included. Pupils appreciate the care and warmth shown to them by staff.” 

They note the “calm atmosphere” within the school and that children want to learn and do well. They understand the school values, which include compassion and friendship… behaviour is positive in lessons and around school. 

Mrs Josie Speck, Chair of the Local Governing Body, said: “There is a saying ‘all good things come to those who wait’ – but I did not expect that wait to be so long and to be so challenging! However, after ten years, 2024 has been ‘Good’ in the true sense of the word.” 

Gail Brown, chief executive of Ebor Academy Trust, said: “This is a really well-deserved report and congratulations to everyone at Easington. We have a unique provision here and I am aware that our journey to ‘Good’ has not been without its challenges. Small rural schools can be vulnerable but through our collaboration with our school in Patrington and with the help and commitment of the trust, we can all justifiably feel proud to have at last reached this positive Ofsted milestone. 

“Parents, carers, governors and children should also feel proud and be pleased that we have come so far. This accolade is as much for you and the local community as it is to the school.”