Staff and pupils at Filton Avenue Primary School are celebrating after receiving a rare rating of ‘exceptional’ (the highest standard nationally) for children’s personal development and wellbeing at its recent Ofsted inspection.
The large primary school in Lockleaze Road was also rated as ‘strong’ in four other inspection categories – standards of curriculum and teaching, early years, inclusion, and leadership and governance – and meeting expected standards in achievement, attendance and behaviour.
Inspectors praised the school’s “transformational impact” on oracy, resulting in pupils who “are confident, articulate and have a sense of wonder about the world around them. Leaders have deliberately designed all aspects of school life to build pupils’ character, resilience and sense of responsibility”.
It was noted that children enjoy a broad range of enrichment opportunities, to enhance learning and aspirations, and “fulfil an array of purposeful leadership roles that enable them to contribute to the school community. These roles are highly prized, and those who hold them are shining examples to others”.
Highlighting an “ambitions and well-sequenced” curriculum, the report noted how well pupils are prepared for the next stage of learning, with staff showing “the expertise they need to adapt teaching effectively so that pupils with SEND can learn alongside their peers”.
And as for the children themselves? “Pupils love attending this school and arrive brimming with enthusiasm for the day ahead. They have positive attitudes to learning. Breaktimes are joyful and harmonious, and pupils of all ages cooperate well with one another,” the Ofsted report said.
Headteacher Dan Rodeck said the school was proud that the inspectors were able to recognise what makes Filton Avenue Primary so special, reflecting the dedication, care and commitment of all involved.
“We believe that everyone can learn, everyone can achieve and everyone belongs, and it is particularly pleasing to see inspectors recognise the impact this ethos has on the lives of our children,” he said.
“Seeing our pupils arrive each day full of enthusiasm, ready to learn and contribute to their community, is something we are immensely proud of.
“The outcomes are really important for the community and one of the best bits about it all, for me, is being able to repay the faith that parents and carers have shown us over the past decade or so. While we are proud of what has been achieved, we remain committed to continually improving and ensuring every child receives the very best education and opportunities possible.”
Filton Avenue Primary School is part of Amplify Education multi academy trust.
Neil Blundell, CEO of Amplify Education, added: “We are incredibly proud of everyone at Filton Avenue Primary School. This report captures what makes the school such a special place: high expectations, a deep commitment to inclusion and a relentless focus on helping every child flourish.
“The recognition of exceptional personal development and wellbeing is particularly significant. This achievement is a testament to the leadership of Dan Rodeck and his team, the dedication of staff and the support of families and the wider community.”