High praise for Laburnum Grove Junior School in Ofsted report

But according to the headteacher of Laburnum Grove, the glowing praise comes 'against all the odds'.

Pip Otton, who has been at the helm of the school in Laburnum Grove for nine years, said it could be tough to score highly in Ofsted inspections because hers is an 'all-inclusive' school.

"They are very much driven on results and we had quite poor results because we are very proud of the fact we are a very inclusive school," said Mrs Otton.

"In my Year 6 I had six children who went on to special school and two who had been speaking English for less than a year and I had to really explain that to the inspector.

"Other schools might cherry-pick the best pupils, but we take every child and really care for their wellbeing, so we are absolutely thrilled with the inspection."

In the report released this week, the inspector described the

children's behaviour as 'excellent' and found them to be 'considerate and kind to each other'.

It went on: "The pupils appreciate the improvements in the environment of the school and thoroughly enjoy the large, interesting playground.

"Staff are dedicated and enthusiastic and put considerable effort into caring for pupils. As a result, pupils feel safe and enjoy coming to school."

The school's curriculum attracted more praise from the inspector, particularly the good pace of lessons and the accurate assessments of pupils' learning.

And something the school is particularly proud of '“ its provision of ICT '“ was recognised by the inspector as excellent and as leaving children 'well prepared for the world beyond school'.

Mrs Otton was keen to promote the school in light of the extensive refurbishment of Bognor Regis Community College.

She said she wanted to ensure attention was not solely focused

on the college's revamp, and parents remembered hers was a well-performing, local, family-oriented school.

She stressed any parent considering sending their child to Laburnum Grove would be welcomed for a tour, and wanted to make sure next year's intake numbers did not drop as it was feared this could result in a teacher being made redundant.

Mrs Otton said: "If parents want small classes and wonderful teachers, we are for them. In my nine years here I have never had a class size above 30 '“ even though there is no restriction on me doing this.

"We're not like other schools where you might just be a number. Our teachers are wonderful and dedicated.

"We only have children from age seven to 11, so we have 144 children registered here and we know them all. It's a lovely school and children love coming here."

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