ONE of the smallest schools in Thurrock has been celebrating an Ofsted inspection verdict of 'Good' which highlights many excellent practices across the whole curriculum and particularly praises the school's core values

It's been eight years since Horndon on the Hill CoE school was last inspected, and rated 'good' and in the interim it has converted to Academy Status and joined the Osborne Co-operative Academy Trust in 2019.

Ofsted inspectors visited the one-form entry school and nursery recently and their report says: "Pupils feel a strong sense of belonging at this warm and welcoming school.

"Pupils show these values throughout the school day. Responsibility is particularly important to pupils. They develop their confidence and independence through the many opportunities the school carefully provides for them to lead.

"Across year groups, pupils look after each other and act as positive role models. Pupils of all ages happily play together on the playground and at the breakfast club. Older pupils especially enjoy setting up games for younger pupils to play during lunchtime.

"The school has established a curriculum that is ambitious for all pupils and is appropriately ordered so that pupils learn the content in a sensible order."

Inspectors also highlighted the school's work with pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, saying: "Specific needs are identified early. This helps staff in both the nursery and reception classes to provide the support children need. Staff have the knowledge they need to help pupils."

And the core values of the school are praised, with the report saying: "The school teaches pupils the importance of listening to adults and each other. The school teaches pupils about the importance of respecting diversity. Pupils develop a broad understanding of different religions and people. Pupils show high levels of respect for anyone who is different to them." 

The only area for improvement highlighted by inspectors says:" In subjects where the curriculum is new, there are occasions where checks on pupils' understanding of content and vocabulary are not used to adapt teaching.

"This means, sometimes, pupils move on to new content before they have secured their understanding of this important knowledge and vocabulary. The school should ensure that teaching in all subjects is well adapted to enable all pupils to secure their understanding of important knowledge and vocabulary."

Head Mrs Debbie Bradley said: "We are delighted to share our recent positive report from Ofsted. Ofsted have confirmed that our commitment from nursery to year six children in our care receive the best possible education."

You can view the full report via this link.