Hornchurch school celebrates “good” Ofsted rating

A headteacher has said he is “delighted” that Ofsted has recognised the improvements made at a Hornchurch School.

The education watchdog judged Benhurst Primary School to be good and said “Achievement has improved significantly since the previous inspection”.

The report continued: “Pupils now reach well-above-average standards in reading, writing and mathematics by the end of Year 6.”

Headteacher David Denchfield said: “We are delighted with the report.

“The children and staff have worked incredibly hard this year and we are pleased Ofsted has recognised the significant progress the school has made.

“I am very proud of our achievements and look forward to continued success in the future.”

The school had been judged to “require improvements” in October 2012. Mr Denchfield became headteacher in 2013.

Within the latest report, which followed a visit in June, inspectors said: “Teaching is good and some aspects are outstanding. Learning is well planned to include a rich variety of activities set at the right level for most pupils.

“School leaders set challenging targets and expectations are high. Very thorough systems for checking each pupil’s progress trigger extra help where necessary so that no one is left behind.”

Inspectors said that to become an outstanding school improvements were required in mathematics across key stages one and two and in reinforcing spelling and handwriting, particularly among boys.

Among the areas the education watchdog noted particular improvement were reading and investigative science.

Mr Denchfield was praised for his leadership of the school.

Inspectors found that “The headteacher provides very strong and effective leadership. He has successfully introduced fair systems to improve teaching and these are known to all. He is well supported by the deputy

headteacher, senior leaders and governors in his quest for ensuring the best possible outcomes for every pupil.”