THOUGH the future management of Corringham Primary School remains a concern, if not even a mystery, to parents, staff and pupils, there was good news today with the announcement of a positive Ofsted report which classifies it as 'good'.

As previously covered on Thurrock Nub News, the school is part of the Ortu Federation, which is about to be replaced by a new trust which will take over the running of Corringham Primary. A decision on which trust will take over is expected soon.

The inspection at Corringham took place in the last week of the autumn term when many local schools had closed due to heavy snow. School principal, Karina Garrick, said: "It was a challenging time to receive a visit from Ofsted, but we know we are a good school and I am pleased that His Majesty's Inspectorate came to the same conclusion."

Inspectors spent two days in the school talking to staff, pupils and parents as well as observing lessons and the day-to-day running of the school. They concluded that the 'ambitious curriculum' helps to 'broaden pupils' horizons' and that 'pupils respond well to the staff's high expectations'. Ofsted praised the school's approach to reading saying that it is at the 'heart of the curriculum' with pupils 'speaking knowledgeably about the structure of stories and how to be an engaging writer'. Corringham was praised for the progress pupils make as they move through the school with increasing independence over time.

The report says that 'pupils behave well and feel involved in the life of the school and adds: "The Year 6 leadership team are proud of the roles they have to help improve the school. Pupils undertake a personal development pathway which ensures they receive a wide variety of experiences."

The school's early years provision was judged as 'good' with inspectors pleased with the progress all pupils make in these formative years.

Mrs Garrick was clearly delighted about the outcome and added: "This inspection judgement is the result of the whole team coming together with a common aim to provide the best possible learning opportunities for every young person. I am pleased that inspectors praised our curriculum which we have always considered to be a strength'.

Federation chair Georgina Clark said: "This report closely mirrors our own evaluation of the school. I would like to take the opportunity to shine a light on Mrs Garrick's outstanding leadership and the whole team at Corringham who have worked so hard to ensure the best possible outcomes for each and every pupil."

Mrs Clark added: "We continue to build upon our strong foundations, making further improvements where needed, as we embark on our journey to outstanding".