‘The Molescroft motto of ‘Everybody cares, everybody learns, and everybody matters’ is not something that exists on a letterhead, it is something that permeates all aspects of school life.’
This is the conclusion of Ofsted inspectors who have graded Molescroft Primary School as Outstanding in all areas, in its latest inspection.
Headteacher Michael Loncaster described the outcome as “a momentous moment for the school and the community”, and paid tribute to every member of the school community.
In a letter to parents and carers, he said: “To have three HMIs telling us ‘about our school’ was extremely humbling.
“They clearly understood the school, its values and ethos. What was particularly important for me, was that the team understood the breadth of what makes up Molescroft.
“This report is a commendation for every individual who works at the school, in whatever their capacity.
“Our ambition for the pupils is clearly recognised, but that is not possible without the astonishing willingness and understanding of everyone in every department of school life.”
He also paid tribute to the children in the school by saying: “The pupils were absolutely amazing. As always, their work ethic, their enthusiasm, their resilience, their outstanding care for each other, their school and outstanding behaviour was demonstrated in every classroom, every corridor, every public space and on the playground. We are all so proud of them.”
Inspectors visited the school on St Leonard’s Road in Beverley on 18th and 19th October.
This was the first time the school has been inspected since 2008, when it was also graded as Outstanding.
In their report, the inspectors said: “Pupils are exceptionally proud to ‘be a Mole’. They talk about being ‘once a Mole, always a Mole’.
“Key Molescroft attributes of working hard, showing gratitude and demonstrating kindness are reinforced by adults at every opportunity. Pupils are determined to demonstrate these attributes, and be ambassadors for their school, as they move through life.”
Inspectors praised the ambitious curriculum developed by the leaders which “enthuses pupils about the world around them”.
The report added: “Subject leaders are very knowledgeable about their subjects. They have carefully considered what pupils should learn in their subject, how it builds upon prior learning and how it links with other subjects.
“Pupils benefit from an exceptional array of extra-curricular clubs and groups, including a vibrant orchestra, an active ecological group and a range of sporting teams.
“Through personal, social and health education (PSHE) lessons, and through daily whole-school assemblies, pupils learn about respect, tolerance and democracy.
“There is an active school council, with representatives from all classes who influence the life of school.”
Behaviour in the school was highlighted as being “exceptionally calm” and safeguarding practices were effective and up-to-date.
Inspectors also found that: “Workload is managed effectively, allowing staff to focus on tasks and activities that will make the most difference to pupils.
“Governors have established processes to gain an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the school. Through these, they have an accurate view of the school, and challenge and support the headteacher and other leaders effectively to continue providing an exceptional education.”
Mr Loncaster concluded that amid the changing educational landscape, his guiding principle is to “ensure the continuing outstanding provision for the children of Molescroft and its community.”
