Inspectors praise Sunderland primary school in 'fantastic' Ofsted report

Shiney Row Primary School, in Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland, achieved a “strong standard” - the second highest of five grades - in achievement, curriculum and teaching, early years, inclusion, leadership and governance and personal development and wellbeing.

The school also received an “expected standard” in attendance and behaviour.

Ofsted inspectors praised this school, recognising how pupils “thrive” in this setting.

The report states: “Pupils thrive at Shiney Row Primary School. They enjoy their learning and are proud of their achievements.

“Pupils benefit from being taught by highly-skilled staff who make sure they have everything they need to achieve well.”

Pupils also develop a “sense of belonging” at this school.

The report states: “They are very well cared for by staff who know them well.

“All pupils, including those with SEND and those who are disadvantaged, learn how to become active citizens in their local community.”

Pupils also feel “safe, happy and confident” at school and show “kindness and respect” to each other.

The next steps for this school include continuing to work closely with pupils and their families to “identify and rapidly reduce barriers to attendance at the earliest opportunity”.

The report continues: “Leaders should continue to embed their provision to support a minority of pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, to learn how to understand their feelings and regulate their emotions appropriately so that they can fully participate in their education.”

Shiney Row Primary School headteacher, Neil Houghton, said: “I am incredibly proud of our Ofsted report and what it says about Shiney Row Primary School.

“To achieve ’strong standard’ in six of the seven areas under the new inspection framework is a fantastic achievement and reflects the hard work that has gone into improving our school.

“What pleases me most is that inspectors have recognised not only the excellent progress our children make academically but also the care, support and opportunities we provide for them.

“We have high expectations for every child, regardless of their background or starting point, and this really comes through in the report.

“These outcomes are a credit to our fantastic staff, our wonderful children and the parents, carers and governors who continue to support us.

“I couldn't be prouder of our whole school community.”