Romford Pictures: Harold Hill school put in special measures is now ‘exciting and dynamic place to learn’ say Ofsted
Headteacher Malcolm Drakes and pupils celebrate an outstanding ofsted report at Broadford Primary School. - Credit: Archant
A transformed primary school has received an outstanding Ofsted report less than four years after being put in special measures.
Broadford Primary School in Faringdon Avenue, Harold Hill, is an “exciting and dynamic place to learn” according to the education watchdog, who in November 2010 described it as “failing to give its pupils an acceptable standard of education.”
Major changes took place following the damning report, including a new £4.5m school build that opened last year, and a new headteacher, Malcolm Drakes.
Now, Broadford has been given 1 ratings across the board (1 being the best, 4 the worst), placing the school in the top 250 nationally, and pupil’s behaviour is described as “impeccable.”
Malcolm took the reins in Septmeber 2011 and oversaw the 2012 inspection, which found the school to be satisfactory.
He said: “When I took over it was clear significant changes had to be made quickly.
“Initially only 28 per cent of pupils were at the right level of phonics knowledge and now 80 per cent pass the test.
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A full time librarian was employed to boost the children’s love of reading, which has also seen improvements, according to the report.
It also describes how teaching has improved since the last inspection, and put it down to high expectations imposed by Malcolm.
The school has a “hugely welcoming and friendly atmosphere,” while parents think their children are “extremely well taught and looked after.”
“Pupils don’t want to miss a day,” said Malcolm. “We have left no stone unturned to ensure that every pupil gets the best deal possible.
“We are excited about what we can achieve over the next few years. Children of Harold Hill deserve nothing less than an outstanding education.”
Inspectors observed 16 lessons and spoke to pupils and parents before writing the report.
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