STUDENTS and staff at a school in Cam are celebrating after showing rapid improvement since their previous Ofsted inspection.

Cam Woodfield Junior School has received a 'good' rating since the previous inspection, which placed them in special measures in January 2017.

Louise Bennett, who took over as Headteacher of Cam Woodfield Junior School in October 2017, said the inspection process was rigorous but very positive. 

She said: “This is an amazing achievement. The inspectors were very complimentary of the school’s ethos and our wonderful children.”

“It’s an amazing achievement and acknowledgement to staff, governors and CBAT trustees, who have worked tirelessly to ensure that Woodfield is a great place to learn and grow.

“Parents and carers have shown great dedication and support to the school and our proudest achievement and biggest thanks goes to the pupils who all work so hard every day, making CWJS a thriving and inspiring environment to learn.”

According to the Ofsted report, inspectors found that "Leaders and staff are ambitious for all pupils" and that the school has created an environment where children 'feel safe’ and look forward to school days.

The inspectors were also impressed with the inclusivity of the school and said that staff were “passionate about the provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.”

However, the inspection found there were still issues that need to be improved.

Inspectors said, in some foundation subjects, school leaders have not identified the essential knowledge that they want students to know and remember. As a result, students miss out on key concepts since they are unable to build on prior knowledge or connect concepts taught.

Ofsted said in their report: “Leaders need to support teachers to develop their subject knowledge, in these subjects, and to adapt the curriculum effectively so that pupils know and remember the important concepts.” 

Emma Irvine, chair of governors at Cam Woodfield Junior School, said: “I am so proud of the children, staff team, governors and academy team who have made this dream a reality.”

“It has been a total privilege to be part of the leadership team throughout the last five years, developing a school environment that cares deeply about every child and encourages everyone to be the best they can be!”

In April 2018, the school joined Cotswold Beacon Academy Trust (CBAT), a local multi-academy trust as part of its improvement.

The school says it has benefited from the trust's guidance and support while maintaining its distinct identity at the heart of its community. 

Dr Stuart Wilson, chief executive of CBAT said: “Everyone at CBAT is extremely proud of the pupils, staff and governors of CWJS who have worked tirelessly since the last inspection to improve the school and make it the happy, vibrant and exciting place to learn that it is today.”

“This inspection endorses our own belief that pupils at the school receive an excellent quality of education, in a safe and supportive environment and importantly, they really enjoy coming to school.”

Cam Woodfield Junior School will celebrate their good rating with the entire school community at an end-of-year event - the "Camtastic" festival.