School report cards are top of the class

Date published: 09/11/2009

A SCHOOL in one of Oldham’s most deprived wards is simply outstanding.

That’s the verdict of Ofsted inspectors who awarded Glodwick Infant and Nursery School a raft of top grades.

The vast majority of pupils are from Pakistani families and almost all do not speak English as their first language.

The inspectors found that the children, including those with special needs and disabilities, come on leaps and bounds from the moment they start school.

And by the time they leave in Year 2 they make outstanding progress.

The report states: “In the very best lessons, the range of teaching styles allows pupils to flourish with a variety of challenging and stimulating tasks.”

The inspectors said that pupils clearly love their school, are enthusiastic, behave extremely well and and feel safe because of exceptionally high standards of care and support.

Attendance is improving, parents are hugely supportive and head teacher Jane Brierley was praised for spearheading outstanding leadership and management.

The report adds: “The head teacher sets the tone and has high expectations of staff and pupils.”

A delighted Mrs Brierley said: “Given the language challenges which the children face when they arrive at Glodwick, their achievement is a testament to the enthusiasm and effort of both pupils and staff.

“While this enthusiasm and effort has been happening for years it is very heartening to receive the outstanding recognition from Ofsted.”