Vernham Dean Gillums Primary School is celebrating after Ofsted awarded the school a rating of 'good' after a recent inspection.

Two Ofsted inspectors visited the school in November 2023 over two days, spending time with the children, staff, governors and parents, assessing all areas of the school.

The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as Good, with all areas of the report also making the same grade.

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Interim head teacher Sharon Pole said: “I am delighted with our recent 'Good' inspection result.

"It reflects the commitment of the skilled staff team and the good quality education the children receive both academically, and for their individual personal development and wellbeing.

Andover Advertiser: Vernham Dean Gillums Primary SchoolVernham Dean Gillums Primary School (Image: Vernham Dean Gillums Primary School)

“We are always immensely proud of our children and this report validates what we already knew.”

In his report, Chris Parker, lead Ofsted inspector, wrote: “The school has high expectations for all its pupils. Leaders have introduced a clear and precise curriculum that teachers are delivering well.

"This means pupils are achieving much better in all areas of the curriculum. This starts in their Reception Year and continues throughout.”

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Effective safeguarding and good behaviour contributed to the Good rating, with the report commenting on a parent’s feedback which said: "My child is so happy at this school. The school is bringing the children up to be such caring individuals. I have nothing but positive comments for the school."

Chair of governors, Paul Nicol, said: “I am thrilled with the rating Ofsted has given to our beautiful village school and would like to thank Sharon Pole and all of the teaching staff for their hard work in ensuring our children get the education they deserve.

“Staff, parents, governors and of course the children make this school what the lead inspector said in his report, the ‘Small School with a Big Heart.’

“We are so proud of our report and our children and look forward to welcoming new children into our school family in 2024."

Vernham Dean School is accepting applications for September 2024 for all year groups. Applications can be made by visiting the Hampshire County Council website, or by calling or emailing the school on 01264 737241 or adminoffice@vernhamdeangillums.hants.sch.uk.