Pupils at Islington's Robert Blair Primary School receive 'outstanding care, guidance and support' according to Ofsted inspectors who visited recently.
The school – based in N7 – was rated as 'good' overall by Ofsted and described as ‘raising attainment and improving progress’ since its last inspection.
Ofsted noted that 'children receive a super start to their education' and low levels of attainment are tackled as soon as pupils join the nursery. Academic achievement at the school is rising and results for 2009 show significant improvements for years 2 and 6. This improving attainment is due in part to the fact that 'pupils experience interesting and stimulating learning experiences which promote their good progress'.
The 'exceptionally high standard' of art skills amongst pupils was particularly praised by Ofsted. The school works closely with art specialists and each pupil has the chance to work with an artist. Robert Blair recently opened an Art as Therapy room aimed at helping children with behavioural and learning difficulties.
Headteacher at Robert Blair, Mark Miller said:
"We are delighted with this Ofsted report which celebrates the hard work that all members of the school community have put in over the past few years.
"Each one of our children, from the babies in the children’s centre right through to the young people in Year 6, deserve, and are now receiving, very positive experiences of school in order to reach their full potential."
Pupil behaviour at Robert Blair is generally good and pupils are keen to learn. They also enjoy taking on extra responsibilities such as raising money for the local community and becoming school councillors.
Cllr Paula Belford, Islington Council’s executive member for children and young people, said:
"Well done to Robert Blair School for this positive feedback from Ofsted. The school has made real progress since the last inspection and this clearly shows in the achievements of pupils and their enjoyment of school. The wonderful art work done by the pupils which is displayed all around the school building is really impressive."
The importance of living a healthy lifestyle and eating healthily is something that Robert Blair pupils have a good understanding of and the school has been given a Healthy School award in recognition of this.
Parents were also quick to praise the school when asked for their opinions by Ofsted. One of them commented "Our son loves school and we feel valued as members of the school community. No child is invisible at Robert Blair."
ENDS
Page Last Updated: 26 November 2009