Alderley Edge Community Primary School has been judged to be Outstanding in a recent inspection by Ofsted.
Overall, inspectors reported that the school is exceedingly well led and managed by the head teacher Chris Perry and they found that children throughout the school achieve exceptionally well and reach well above average standards in reading, writing and mathematics.
During the two day inspection, on 25th and 26th March, the inspectors observed 15 lessons, or parts of lessons, in all year groups and found that teaching is consistently good, and frequently outstanding, and has improved since the last inspection in June 2009 - when the school was rated Good. They also noted that expectations of pupils are always high and work in their books is of a high standard.
Progress in lessons and in books was scrutinised closely and inspectors found that 'challenging activities are set for pupils of all different abilities and so they make rapid progress'. The inspection team praised the quality of the curriculum stating that it 'is rich and provides pupils with a wide range of memorable experiences to improve the basic skills and promote their personal development very well'.
The Lead Inspector Vanessa MacDonald praised the 'relentless determination' of the headteacher, Chris Perry, and his deputy, Lindsey Walsh, to 'provide the best education for pupils'. The report goes on to state that 'the headteacher and the deputy headteacher are a highly able and effective team who are totally committed to driving improvement in the school'.
The report also commented on the children's achievement during their time at the school. It stated that 'by the end of Year 6, pupils consistently reach standards which are well above the national average. The number of pupils reaching the highest levels is well above the national average, particularly in reading and writing. The most-able pupils make outstanding progress to reach these higher levels'.
The Inspection Team found that the behaviour of the children is outstanding and they demonstrate an eagerness to learn and strive to do their best in lessons, working very well either on their own or with others. The inspection report stated that 'learning is carefully matched to their needs and timely and specific support is provided'.
Headteacher, Chris Perry, said: "I am immensely proud of our school, the children, all the staff and the many volunteers who help in the school. Everyone has worked incredibly hard to ensure that we maximise the potential of every child in our school.
"I am absolutely delighted that Ofsted have recognised our school as outstanding. Our school motto states that we are an "inclusive school of life-long learners" and I was thrilled that the inspection team recognised not only our inclusive practices, but our eagerness and ability to continue to evolve, develop and improve."
Vanessa MacDonald said that "all staff and governors work together well to move the school forward. All staff are highly valued and are committed to helping all pupils reach their potential."
Kate Cox, Chair of Governors, added: "The Ofsted report is exceptional and I am delighted that Ofsted agree with the Headteacher that the school is Outstanding. As Chair of Governors, I would like to congratulate and thank all the children, staff, volunteers and parents on their hard work and commitment to the school."
In order to improve further the inspectors said the school needed to "ensure that pupils know exactly what to do to improve their work through high quality marking in all subjects, but particularly in mathematics".
Photo: Lindsey Walsh and Chris Perry with children from across the school.
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Cllr Sue Joseph