Ofsted praises Moulsecoomb Primary’s lockdown work

An Ofsted inspection has praised Moulsecoomb Primary School’s response to the recent lockdown and the remote learning it put in place.

 

Inspectors said school leaders and governors: 

• had taken effective action to provide education during the lockdown
• were committed to doing all they could to ensure that every pupil engaged with learning
• had taken swift action to make sure all pupils learning remotely had a laptop to use, internet access, and paper learning packs where needed.

The inspection, carried out remotely, was carried out in February. At the time around 80% of pupils were being educated remotely. Vulnerable pupils and those with an education, health and care plan were being educated on site.

 

Inspectors also said that: 

• the remote education provision included a wide range of carefully planned reading, writing, mathematics and topic activities, and daily phonics activities for the younger pupils
• the school was particularly alert to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and / or disabilities, as well as other pupils identified by the school as vulnerable
• strong relationships with parents have helped leaders to support pupils and their families very effectively.

The school used weekly calls, texts and home visits to make sure vulnerable pupils continued to benefit from valuable academic and essential pastoral support during this uncertain period.

 

The council’s education team has continued to support the school throughout the past year. They have helped school leaders to shape the school’s remote education offer, as well as providing clear advice about school development.

 

Headteacher Adam Sutton said: “I’m really proud of how well our whole school community has responded to the pandemic.

 

“It’s been a very difficult time for our staff, our pupils and our parents and carers. But we’re a close-knit community and everyone has really pulled together.

 

“I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and for going the extra mile to help each other.

 

“We know there is much more to do, but I’m delighted that Ofsted has once again praised us for the work we’re doing.”

 

The chair of Brighton & Hove City Council’s Children, Young People and Skills committee is Councillor Hannah Clare. She said: 

 

“I think it’s very clear that Moulsecoomb Primary is going in the right direction and is continuing to improve.

 

“The report also makes clear the key role of the council’s education team in supporting the school, and in particular their highly effective support during the pandemic.

 

“It’s a scandal that the school continues to have the dark shadow of forced academisation hanging over it.

 

“Moulsecoomb Primary is a good school, valued by many – that never deserved the damning report it got. An overwhelming 96% of parents have said they don’t want the school to become an academy.

 

“The Government’s failed academisation policy hasn’t worked – and yet they continue to force it upon communities against their wishes. 

 

“The council will continue to do everything we can to fight this unjust action.”