The school is celebrating being designated an outstanding school by Ofsted in a glowing inspection report.
The report says the school’s major strengths are “the outstanding personal development of pupils and the excellent leadership of the experienced headteacher who has very high expectations of both staff and pupils.”
When describing the personal development and well-being of pupils, the OfSTED report quotes a pupil who summarised the feeling of many when she said, “I’d beg my Mum and Dad to send me back if I had to leave.” The care guidance and support of pupils was summed up by a parent who commented, “It’s almost like having an extended family”.
Headteacher Michael Latham told the press:
“The inspection team identified what we see every day-that the children value each other as individuals and relate exceptionally well to each other, that they are polite and friendly, that their behaviour and attitudes to learning are outstanding and that they have a thirst for learning.
These children are our future, and we are tremendously proud of them. They will continue to inspire us to strive to ensure that every day is structured, stimulating and challenging so that we can meet their needs as learners, young people and members of our community in the coming years.
We are, obviously, delighted that the hard work of so many people has been recognised: the staff, parents, governors and the wider community, including Trident regeneration. In partnership with Education Bradford we look forward with enthusiasm to making Newby an even better school in the years ahead.”
Jackie Walters, Chair of Governors, adds:
“Outstanding is what we want for our children and the governors are delighted that this has been achieved and recognised. It has involved a tremendous joint effort from all at Newby - Mike Latham and his staff, parents, governors, support from the local authority - but most of all credit must go to our diligent, enthusiastic children who always strive to give of their best and care for each other.”
Kath Tunstall, Interim Director of Bradford Council’s Children’s Services, says:
“This report is absolutely outstanding. I am delighted for everyone concerned and would wish to extend my personal congratulations. A team work approach involving children, parents, Governors, leaders and the whole community has produced a fantastic result.”
Steve Hartley, Chief Executive, Bradford Trident, agrees:
"Newby Primary is a wonderful asset for the Bradford Trident area and fully deserves the outstanding accolades. The school plays a huge role in the new confidence and buoyancy that is evident as a result of regeneration in the West Bowling and Marshfields neighbourhoods and gives the best possible start to the youngsters of the area."
John Gaskin, Education Bradford’s Managing Director, comments:
“This report clearly shows how a school can positively influence the life chances of children who live in a disadvantaged area. Everyone involved at Newby Primary deserves to be congratulated on such a positive outcome.”
