'Significant changes' at The Flying Bull Academy with Ofsted highlighting all areas 'need attention'

Significant changes are underway at a primary school after an Ofsted inspection found all areas require improvement.

Leaders at The Flying Bull Academy, in Flying Bull Lane, Buckland, say staff are committed to building on the progress already made after inspectors identified several areas for improvement during a visit on June 9.

The report says: "Pupils are benefiting from recent significant changes at the school. Leaders and governors are revitalising pupils' experiences. There is a genuine sense from pupils, staff and the trust that the school is restoring the standards that the community expects and its pupils deserve."

Inspectors found that, although leaders have taken action to improve the curriculum, many of the changes are still in their infancy and it is too soon to see their full impact.

The report also highlighted inconsistencies in the quality of curriculum delivery. However, inspectors said the school's new leadership team is using its "well-informed" understanding of primary education to strengthen teaching and learning.

Grace Brown, headteacher at The Flying Bull Academy, said: "I am proud that Ofsted has recognised the progress our school is making. We know there is still work ahead, but every decision we make is centred on giving our children and families the very best. Our staff, families and wider community have worked with us to build strong foundations, and we will continue building on that progress together."

Inspectors recognised improvements in early years provision, noting that leaders understand the importance of delivering high-quality education from the outset. The report said further work is needed to improve the quality of teaching and interactions between staff and pupils.

The school's processes for identifying pupils who face barriers to learning and wellbeing have also been strengthened, although inspectors found there are still inconsistencies in how effectively staff address those barriers.

The report continued: "Leaders work collaboratively with other professionals, and with parents and carers, to ensure that they understand pupils' needs. For example, they act on advice from specialists to ensure that the strategies and resources used to support pupils' behaviour are effective.

"As a result, teachers typically ensure that pupils with SEND have the necessary equipment and staff support to help them access the curriculum. This is best highlighted in the recent improvements to the school's specially resourced provision for pupils with SEND."

Jennese Alozie, chief executive officer of the University of Chichester Academy Trust, said: "The report recognises the significant work taking place at The Flying Bull Academy and the clear direction now in place. Grace, her team, the Interim Governing Body and Trust colleagues have worked with determination and care to strengthen provision for children and families.

"There is more to do, and we will continue to provide the support and challenge needed to build on this progress and secure the high standards our pupils deserve."

For more information about the Ofsted report, click here.