School takes swift action to bring about changes after ‘inadequate’ Ofsted report

Roman Way First School in Royston has “taken swift and successful action” in improving safeguarding measures, according to an inspection report by Ofsted.

The school, in Burns Road, received an overall ‘inadequate’ rating from Ofsted inspectors after visits from July to November last year, and – as a result – a monitoring inspection has now been carried out.

In the report, inspector John Lucas said: “Since the previous inspection, you and your leaders have rightly taken swift and successful action to bring about the changes needed to ensure that safeguarding is effective.

“You have made sure that adults have an unwavering focus on ensuring that pupils’ well-being is central to their work.

“Pupils told me that they feel safe at school. They explained that this is because teachers ‘look out for us’ and school is a happy place in which to learn. Pupils understand the difference between falling out and bullying. Those I spoke with found it hard to recall any incidents of bullying at their school. Pupils told me that if any incidents were to occur, they were confident staff would deal with them well.”

The report also said the school has improved staff and governors knowledge and understanding of safeguarding guidance and practice.

The inspector said the school had acted to improve the “level of consistency with which staff deal with incidents of poor behaviour and promote positive behaviour”, and that their behaviour policy is underpinned by the chosen values of ‘Ready, respectful and safe.

As well as continuing safeguarding improvements, the school must also work on increasing pupils’ attendance.

Acting headteacher Pat Baxter said: “I am delighted with the outcome of the latest Ofsted safeguarding inspection.

“The comments of the Inspector and the report reflect the huge journey we have been on since the initial visit in November.

“I am very grateful for the incredible hard work of every member of staff, pupils, parents, carers and governors who have given the school so much support.

“Although this wasn’t a full inspection, it’s a great boost for our school and we will continue with our improvement plan to get the rating we deserve in the future.”

“Staff I spoke with explained that they feel more confident and better equipped to carry out their important safeguarding responsibilities.”