Praise for Hillside’s “happy family”

PUPILS at a Bradwell primary school are part of a “big happy family” and enjoy a good education with outstanding care, guidance and support.

That was the impression of Ofsted inspectors who visited the 240-place Hillside Primary School in Lords Lane last term, and have now published their findings, declaring it a “good school.”

Inspectors found that pupils’ attainment was above the national average and that they enjoyed an exciting curriculum, with good and sometimes outstanding teaching and exemplary behaviour.

They said the school had managed to retain its distinctive character and ethos as it changed from a first school to a primary school.

Christine Bryant, headteacher of Hillside Primary School, said: “Our pupils are an absolute delight and we are thrilled that their behaviour and enthusiasm has been highlighted in this report.

“We want to ensure all children can achieve their best, both academically and personally, and this report shows we are succeeding in motivating our pupils and nurturing their talents.

“Everyone at the school puts the needs and welfare of children first and it is testament to the caring and supportive staff, governors and parents that we have received such a good report.”

Inspectors praised leadership at the school and said “the headteacher and deputy drive improvement well and have good systems in place to track pupils’ progress”.

They also said “there had been good progress since the school’s last inspection and there is good capacity for the school to improve further”.

Parents also praised the school, with all those who responded to Ofsted’s survey saying that their children enjoy school, teaching is good and the school meets their children’s particular needs.