'Relentlessly high ambition' of Maidenhead primary pupils recognised by Ofsted

Pupils at St Luke’s CofE Primary School have been praised for embodying the ‘ambition to live life in all its fullness’ and taking every opportunity to learn more.

Ofsted inspectors rated the Cookham Road school as ‘Outstanding’ in all areas in a report published this week.

During a two-day inspection in July, inspectors said classrooms are ‘purposeful and alive with excited learning’, calling the school a ‘calm and joyful place’ where everyone is respected.

Acting headteacher Claire Spankie said: “All of the excellent work that goes on here being recognised externally is a real testament to the teaching staff.

“It’s a true reflection of all the energy, the effort and the passion every teacher, and every child puts into every single day at school.”

Inspectors spoke highly of the school and said staff and leaders have relentlessly high ambitions for all pupils.

The report added: “Staff understand these pupils’ needs well and provide exceptional support at every stage of learning. Leaders and staff plan what pupils learn meticulously. They are determined to make sure every pupil learns and remembers as much as possible.”

Amanda Butler, who had the role of headteacher at the time of the inspection, said: “It’s been really nice for staff to read that their work has been recognised.

“From the school community’s point of view, it’s really positive and upholds all the wonderful work that everyone does here at St Lukes – the staff, the pupils – everybody works together.

“To be a school that is so inclusive and so diverse, and to have that recognised is a real bonus, and a positive for the community.”

She said the report spoke positively about the school’s inclusion and support, where children are encouraged to thrive.

The report described how differences are celebrated and pupils at St Luke’s have a 'deep understanding of tolerance’.

Pupils learn and play together with maturity and consideration of others, and they gain a powerful understanding of themselves and the world around them, the report added.

Amanda said: “Our inclusivity and the way the curriculum is bespoke… really brings learning alive.”

“I think it’s about giving children everything they need to be successful, irrespective of whether that’s academic.

“That comes from having an open door for all – that inclusivity and understanding that we’re all different but we’re special and we’re all part of this wonderful place. It’s more than a job, and I think that really comes through in what everyone does and everyone has a real sense of belonging.”

Staff and students will be celebrating their Ofsted result during the school’s anniversary event later this term.