Drapers' Maylands Primary School headteacher 'proud' of Ofsted report

Drapers' Maylands Primary School has been graded as "exceptional" for its personal development and wellbeing provision, and of a "strong standard" across most other areas, following an Ofsted inspection in November 2025.

The school in Settle Road was one of the very first to be inspected under the new Ofsted framework, with the report - published earlier this month - detailing a "strong sense of belonging" amongst pupils.

Executive principal Trudy Spillane said this inclusivity and community spirit sits "at the heart" of Drapers' Maylands.

The school has been praised for its focus on pupil wellbeing (Image: Drapers' Maylands Primary School)

Ms Spillane told the Recorder: "We are incredibly proud that Ofsted has recognised the exceptional personal development and inclusive culture that sit at the heart of Maylands.

"Our staff are deeply committed to ensuring every child is known, supported and inspired.

"We are pleased with our strong foundations, and excellent outcomes for children represent this year on year.

"We remain ambitious for every single pupil at Maylands and will ensure they receive the highest quality education and leave us fully prepared for the next stage of their journey."

The primary school, which celebrated its tenth birthday last year, received no "urgent improvement" or "needs attention" grades from Ofsted, and one "expected standard" rating for its achievement.

In the remainder of areas inspected by Ofsted - personal development and wellbeing, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, early years, inclusion, and leadership and governance - the school was found to go above and beyond what is expected.

Drapers' Maylands recently celebrated its tenth birthday (Image: Drapers' Maylands Primary School)

Its "exceptional" rating for wellbeing and development demonstrates that the school is of the highest standard nationally, and that other schools can learn from it.

Indeed, Ofsted noted that leaders at Drapers' Maylands are "rightfully" sharing their "transformational" work in the realm of personal development to benefit other schools.

The school's chair of governors Lucy Panter said: "This report reflects the dedication of our staff, the support of our families and the enthusiasm of our pupils.

"Maylands is a school where children thrive academically and personally, and we are proud of the difference it makes to the community."