Primary school celebrates “outstanding” Ofsted report

Dolton CofE Primary School in Torridge is celebrating its recent Ofsted inspection, which resulted in aN outstanding review for both the school and its community. 

The school received the highest possible rating of outstanding for its Personal Development and Early Years and Foundation Stage Provision, a significant achievement for the small village school.

The report, now available online, highlighted the school's nurturing environment, with inspectors praising the positive interactions between staff and pupils.

The report noted: “Pupils enjoy attending this small village school. Warm, supportive relationships with staff enable pupils to flourish. Pupils are enthusiastic about what each day at school has in store for them. Pupils treat one another with compassion. Pupils of all ages socialise and work together harmoniously“

Dolton CofE Primary is closely linked with The Clinton CofE Primary School in Merton, with the two schools sharing a headteacher and collaborating on various initiatives, including extra-curricular activities. 

Both schools were recognised earlier in the year with the prestigious ACE (Association for Character Education) Quality Mark Award, an accolade given to fewer than 100 schools nationwide.

This award acknowledges the schools' efforts to develop well-rounded, confident individuals who can inspire positive change.

The Ofsted report highlighted the school's focus on character development, stating: “Developing pupils' characters is at the heart of everything the school does. Pupils value the virtues that the school wants them to acquire. They understand the relevance of these to their everyday lives, both now and for their futures. The schools’ approach to developing pupils’ character contributes strongly to the cooperative and exuberant atmosphere. Pupils, including the very youngest, concentrate well. They persist when they find learning challenging.”

Pupils at Dolton also spoke positively about their school experience. One student said, “Everyone is caring and kind to everyone,” while another added, “Everyone works hard, we are confident in what we write and we are proud of our achievements.”

The school's lunch program, run by Sharon, was also a hit with students, who described the meals as “delightful and delicious.”

Headteacher Mrs Samantha Drew, who took on the role less than two years ago, was commended for her leadership in the report. 

Inspectors noted the implementation of a new, ambitious curriculum, which aligns with the high aspirations that both staff and the headteacher hold for the pupils.

In response to the Ofsted results, Mrs Drew expressed her pride in the school's achievements, stating: “We are extremely proud of this really positive outcome which is a testament to the care and commitment of our staff, the support of our families and local community, And of course, a celebration of our wonderful children!”

Dolton and The Clinton Primary Schools both cater to children aged 2 to 11, offering free breakfast and after-school clubs, as well as free school meals for all pupils, including those in nursery.