Westdene Primary School rated 'outstanding' in all areas

Westdene Primary in Brighton was inspected by Ofsted on October 1 and 2.

The report said it was a joyous place where "individuality and uniqueness are recognised and celebrated".

The inspectors praised the "profoundly inclusive culture and a relentless drive for continuous school improvement".

In its last inspection in March of last year, Ofsted said the school continued to be a good one.

This time it received an outstanding rating for the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and early years provision.

The dedication and commitment of everyone in the Westdene school community including pupils, staff, parents/carers, governors and the wider community was reflected in the report.

It highlighted that “relationships between adults and pupils, and among pupils are kind, supportive and respectful” and “pupils say that they feel supported, safe and happy".

Jenny Stratton and Lisa Hagon, acting co-headteachers, said: ‘We are absolutely delighted with the outcome and could not be more proud of every single member of the Westdene team.

“Our children were fantastic ambassadors for the school and they engaged enthusiastically with the inspection team to share and celebrate their learning and personal development.

“Our staff demonstrate dedication and commitment to delivering our shared aims and ambitions on a daily basis.”

Caroline Lucas, then Brighton Pavilion MP, visiting Westdene Primary School in 2018 The report  said the school is "successfully meeting their mission of embedding excellence and equality" and praised how "pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)”  all learn and progress well.

Inspectors commented that the curriculum is a "powerfully designed tool” and pupils are inspired by the curriculum.

They also noted that the "curriculum content and resources have been reviewed to ensure that all pupils can see themselves, their families and their heritages reflected in the school’s curriculum".

The report said “expectations for pupils’ learning and achievement are exceedingly ambitious".

Charles Haywood, chairman of governors, said: “The outcome is a testament to the strong teamwork and sense of community in our school.

“We are proud of all of the pupils and the professionalism of our staff and governors plus we are thankful for our hugely supportive community of parents/carers.”