Smiles all round as Derbyshire school celebrates ‘outstanding’ visit from Ofsted inspectors

An “exceptional” school has achieved the highest praise possible after a visit from Ofsted inspectors who declared it to be “outstanding” in every category.

William Gilbert Endowed Church of England Primary, in Vicarage Lane, Duffield, achieved an overall “outstanding” rating after a visit last month from the education watchdog. The school and nursery is part of the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust and has managed to hold on to the top rating it previously received after a visit in 2008.

The timing could not be better as pupils have been preparing for their school nativity, aptly named ‘The Inn-spectors’, which was decided before they knew they were getting a visit.

The three-strong Ofsted inspection team noted “pupils flourish at this exceptional school where differences between people are nurtured and valued.” The behaviour of the school’s 246 pupils was described as “exemplary…because they know what is expected of them and they live up to those expectations.”

Headteacher Helen Britten said: “We are incredibly proud of our Ofsted report and it’s pleasing that the inspectors saw how happy and hardworking our pupils are. The staff work so hard to make sure all our pupils enjoy exceptional personal development that allows them to thrive and flourish.

“William Gilbert is a special family that develops the whole child spiritually, morally, socially, and culturally, not just academically.  We strive to not only give them the best education but also the best school experience where they feel safe and supported.”

The inspection found that younger pupils “get off to a flying start” and the school’s curriculum “flows seamlessly” from the early years in Nursery and Reception to Year 6, also noting that: “The Christian ethos of the school supports pupils to develop strong moral values.”

Other findings include that “The school’s vision for excellence permeates throughout the school. William Gilbert school has exceptionally high expectations of all pupils to achieve, across each area of the curriculum. Pupils thrive academically and in their wider personal development.”

Dr Sarah Clark, the chief executive officer of the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, said: “The staff at William Gilbert work incredibly hard and this is a testament to that dedication. We are so proud of this report and that the inspectors saw what goes into making William Gilbert the outstanding school we already knew it to be.”