Primary goes from special measures to outstanding in three years (From News Shopper)

Brooklands School in Blackheath ranked outstanding by Ofsted

2:36pm Monday 2nd July 2012 in News By Mark Chandler

JUST three years ago it was placed in special measures but a primary school is now celebrating being ranked outstanding across the board by inspectors.

The new Ofsted report marks a rapid turnaround for Brooklands School in Blackheath, making it the first in Greenwich to be branded outstanding under tough new inspection regulations.

Head teacher Nick Osborne, who was appointed two years ago, said: "We're always looking to improve but it's great to know that the main parts of our work are outstanding."

In 2009, inspectors slammed the Medebourne Close school's management, low pupil performance and inadequate teaching.

But a newly published report details its outstanding progress in glowing terms - from boosting pupil's learning and behaviour to improving school safety.

Deputy head teacher Carole Hornsby explained the 236-pupil primary had introduced a 'creative curriculum' which means the pupils themselves help shape what they learn about.

Recent work has seen them learning about Fairtrade, organising their own cafe in the process, setting up their own chicken coops and vegetable beds - even learning about shares.

She said: "What we show the children is it's about having a go - that it's ok to make mistakes."

The school has also made more links with the community, with a parent council and friends group being encouraged.

The leadership team was replaced and, among other changes, seven teaching staff have been replaced, but Mrs Hornsby stressed: "The people that were here and have stayed have been part of the story too."

She said: "The staff all love it here. The children are all really happy and their behaviour is exemplary. Staff morale has really improved too."

For more on the school visit brooklandsschool.org.uk/