Full marks for school's first year

ONLY a year ago no pupils had yet stepped foot inside what was then Ipswich's newest primary school.It lay clean and pristine as the building dust settled and was swept away to clear the classrooms for an influx of eager children.

ONLY a year ago no pupils had yet stepped foot inside what was then Ipswich's newest primary school.

It lay clean and pristine as the building dust settled and was swept away to clear the classrooms for an influx of eager children.

But today, just 12 months after opening, everyone at Ravenswood Community Primary School is already celebrating the fact they have won high praise from Ofsted inspectors.

The Ofsted report highlighted the school's "excellent partnership" with the community, and added: "These links have a positive impact on the pupil's learning and personal development."

Ravenswood has focussed on developing its links with parents and the local community.

The quality of teaching is improving, and assessment is being used more effectively.

The standards in years one and two are continuing to rise, and the report says the school is now well placed to improve further.

The inspection team found that the provision for pupils' personal, social and health education was very good, as is their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

Inspectors also found that the new site provided good accommodation, and has a positive effect on the morale of staff and pupils.

The school has already identified areas for improvements through its own self-evaluation process. These include continuing to raise standards in English, maths and science and provide more focussed monitoring of teaching and learning.

Delighted headteacher Marilyn Such said: "Ofsted inspectors recognised the improvements which have been made as well as the commitment of staff, parents and governors who work well together to provide a quality education for all pupils."