Fulwell Infant School Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school.

By the end of Year 2, pupils reach levels of attainment in reading, writing and mathematics which are significantly above average. Pupils of all ages make rapid progress from their broadly typical starting points and learn exceptionally well. The achievement of the most able pupils is excellent.

A well above average proportion of pupils reach the higher levels of attainment. The performance of pupils supported by the pupil premium has improved rapidly. They now achieve very well.

The specialised help and support for disabled pupils and those special educational needs ensures that they make rapid gains in learning. Pupils..., parents and staff say that teaching and learning is first rate and inspectors agree. Pupils receive excellent learning experiences, which are adapted very well to their varying needs and abilities.

Occasionally, however, a few pupils complete too much of the same work rather than quickly moving onto more difficult work as soon as they are ready. The behaviour of pupils is excellent. They are considerate, polite and friendly.

Their attitude towards learning is very positive and they waste little time in getting down to their schoolwork. Pupils are very proud of their school and of their accomplishments, as shown by the care they take with the presentation of their work. Pupils not only say they feel safe but prove it by their excellent knowledge about the dangers associated with computers and mobile phones.

The headteacher and senior staff have improved the achievement of pupils and managed the quality of teaching extremely well. The school continues to improve quickly. A highly imaginative curriculum is tailored especially well to meet pupils' varying needs.

Pupils' musical and artistic talents are particularly well promoted. Pupils' basic literacy and numeracy skills develop rapidly due to excellent opportunities to practise their skills across all aspects of their learning. The governing body has an excellent grasp of the school's strengths.

Governors hold leaders to account, including ensuring the performance of teachers is exceptionally well managed.

Information about this school

Fulwell Infant School Academy converted to become an academy school in December 2012. When its predecessor school, Fulwell Infant School, was last inspected by Ofsted, it was judged to be good.

Fulwell Infant School Academy is larger than the average-sized infant school. The proportion of pupils supported by the pupil premium is below average. The pupil premium is additional funding for those pupils who are known to be eligible for free school meals and those children who are looked after by the local authority.

The proportion of pupils supported at school action is below average. The proportion of pupils supported at school action plus, or with a statement of special educational needs, is below average. The school works in partnerships with several other schools, for example, to secure standards in the moderation of pupils' work.