Prudhoe Castle First School Celebrates Positive Ofsted Outcome

14th May 2025Jump Marketing

Prudhoe Castle First School Celebrates Positive Ofsted Outcome

We are proudly celebrating the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection, which confirms the school is delivering high-quality education and care across all key areas.

Following a two-day inspection in March 2025, Ofsted rated the school Good in every category: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.

The report praises our school as the “little school with a big heart and big ambition,” and notes that pupils are happy and feel safe. Inspectors highlighted the school’s caring and inclusive culture, strong curriculum, and high expectations for all learners. Children are described as “settled,” “respectful,” and “keen to meet the school’s high expectations.”

The inspection recognised the strength of leadership at all levels, crediting the collaboration between the school, our governors, and Cheviot Learning Trust. Leaders are described as being “determined that every pupil will succeed,” with the support of experienced staff from across the Trust.

Little Castle was especially praised for giving the youngest children a “great start to their learning,” and older pupils were recognised for their leadership as school councillors and play leaders. Inspectors also commended our school’s commitment to inclusion, noting that “pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) achieve well and play a full part in the life of the school.”

The report also provided some feedback on areas like handwriting and mathematics lessons, which we have already started to take action on and improve to make the school thrive further.

Jill Dodds, Acting Executive Headteacher, expressed her pride in the school’s achievement:

“Prudhoe Castle First School has a Big Heart and Big Ambition for all of our children and this is reflected in our most recent OFSTED report. I couldn’t be prouder of the children, staff, and Castle community who all played a part in achieving this wonderful report.

As the Acting Executive Headteacher, I’d like to sing from the rooftops about this significant achievement for our school and celebrate all of the hard work going on, to help our school continue to go from strength to strength.

At Prudhoe Castle First School, we strive to #bemoreCASTLE every day, and the report shows this. We will continue to work hard, do our best, and #bemoreCASTLE!”

We are happy to have a clear vision, supportive culture, and ambitious leadership, so we can continue to be a place where children thrive.

Newsletter January 2025

29th January 2025Jump Marketing

Prudhoe Castle First School’s latest Ofsted inspection

20th March 2024Jump Marketing

In February 2024, Prudhoe Castle First School experienced an Ofsted inspection, achieving a ‘good’ rating in a report based on the current framework.

Prudhoe Castle First School is dedicated to creating an environment where growth and achievement are celebrated in every one of our pupils. The latest Ofsted report praises the positive culture and consistent approach to teaching throughout our school, whilst also noting some areas that might need some more attention. 

The school leadership team is delighted to see the positive report and to receive some feedback. We are already working on initiatives to address areas where there can be improvement, moving the school in an even more positive direction! 

Building Foundations for Success

Prudhoe Castle First School has made significant strides in various areas, particularly in refining our curriculum and educational approach. The Ofsted report emphasises how the school leadership team’s dedication to ensuring the success of all pupils and staff is evident in their proactive efforts to revamp the learning environment and subject curriculum.

Ofsted states that staff are well-trained, and have the necessary subject knowledge to deliver the curriculum well, particularly in maths where pupils feel confident. Gaps in phonics are being combatted by a structured phonics program spearheaded our new senior leadership team.

Navigating Change

After a period of transition at the school, we are incredibly confident that the new senior leadership team have both a focused and clear strategy for the upcoming years. 

Ofsted could see how the school community has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. In the report, it is noted that the arrival of a new senior leadership team has infused fresh energy into the school, fostering strong relationships and creating a supportive atmosphere for both pupils and teachers.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Prudhoe Castle First School continues on its journey of improvement, we are optimistic and determined to succeed. The Ofsted inspection saw significant strides in attendance, and accessibility for pupils with special educational needs, and a thriving early years provision. 

Fostering a deep understanding of fundamental British values and providing opportunities for student leadership, Prudhoe Castle First School equips all of our pupils with essential life skills beyond the classroom.

While challenges remain, our dedication to fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment sets the stage for a promising future.Â