The Olive School, Preston

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school The diligent and determined headteacher, ably supported by her extremely effective deputy principal, provides inspirational leadership for this happy and vibrant school. Highly effective teaching ensures that pupils learn exceptionally well and make excellent progress. As a result, pupils are extremely well prepared for the next stage of their education, both personally and academically.

Leaders and teachers have the same high expectations of all pupils. They consider each pupil's individual needs carefully, adjusting teaching according to how well pupils are learning. Pupils are curious about the world around them and are respectful of th...e views and beliefs of others.

Pupils' excellent behaviour makes a strong contribution to their enjoyment of school and to the quality of their learning. The multi-academy trust (MAT) provides exceptional support and challenge for the school and its staff. Parents and carers who completed Ofsted's online survey, Parent View, and those who spoke with the inspector were highly appreciative of the school's work.

Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) make substantial progress due to the excellent match of learning to their identified needs and barriers.. The curriculum develops pupils' deep knowledge and secure skills in a wide range of subjects.

As a result, they are highly engaged and motivated to learn. The early years team provides children with an excellent start to school life. Children are happy, settled and excited about learning.

They make very strong progress during early years and are well prepared for Year 1. Governance is highly effective. Members of the board work closely with staff and trustees to consider and review the school's work.

Middle leaders are clear about their roles and responsibilities. They provide very effective support for teachers. As a result, high-quality teaching has been sustained over time.

Pupils feel safe and state that bullying is exceptionally rare. They have a detailed understanding of how to keep themselves safe when working online. Leaders are preparing for the challenges of sustaining the quality of education given the school's further expansion into key stage 2 and the move to new premises.

Information about this school

The Olive School opened as a two-form entry, Muslim-faith-based primary school in September 2016. It is part of the STAR Academies Trust. It has yet to have its first section 48 inspection.

Currently, the school has four year groups: Reception, Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3 with a total of 240 pupils. This is due to extend annually until 2021 when it will have the full primary age range and will also have moved into purpose-built premises. All pupils are from minority ethnic backgrounds and almost three quarters of them speak English as an additional language; these are well above the proportions seen nationally.

The proportion of pupils supported by the pupil premium funding is higher than the national average. The proportion of pupils with SEND is slightly below average. The proportion of pupils who have an education, health and care plan is below average.