Nursery school praised by Ofsted (From Witney Gazette)

Nursery school praised by Ofsted

9:00am Wednesday 29th November 2006 in Witney By Nione Meakin

TWO Oxfordshire schools described as outstanding on an Ofsted report have been celebrating their success.

The Ace Centre Nursery School, part of the Ace Children's Centre, in Burford Road, Chipping Norton, and the Fitzwaryn Special School, in Denchworth Road, Wantage, were the only two county schools to receive the accolade, following inspections from Ofsted.

Their success was published on Ofsted's annual list of outstanding providers.

Helen Ruff, acting head of the Ace Nursery School, said: "Everybody is over the moon. We had an inspection back in June, and following that, we were named on the list.

"We were really pleased, because in Oxfordshire, we were one of only two schools to get an outstanding."

The school, which has been running for about 11 years, cares for 80 children, aged from three to five.

In its report, Ofsted said: "The attention paid to children's individual needs is impressive, and promotes outstanding achievement in both their academic and personal development.

"The school is extremely well led. All leaders and managers work closely as a team to provide the best they can for the children. Governors fulfil their roles very effectively, and contribute significantly to school improvement. The school works very well with other agencies and with parents to enhance the children's well-being and achievement."

Judy Clayton, assistant head of Fitzwaryn Special School, said: "I think everybody was absolutely delighted that the hard work of staff, pupils, parents, and everyone concerned has been recognised."

The school, established in 1969, has about 58 pupils, aged from three to 16, who have profound-to-moderate learning difficulties.

In its report, Ofsted said the school provided good value for money, showed outstanding teaching in the Foundation Stage, and had strong links with nearby schools and colleges.

It added: "The school ethos and code of conduct is rooted in mutual respect. This pervades the whole school, throughout every part of the day and every activity.

"Pupils practise the code of conduct very effectively. Behaviour is exemplary. Pupils are caring, friendly, helpful, and loyal to their friends, their class, and their school."