THE HEADTEACHER of a Basingstoke school has said she is 'delighted' after inspectors upgraded its Ofsted rating to 'outstanding'.

Ruth Griffiths, head of Rucstall Primary School in Black Dam, has said she is 'proud' of its community, including teachers, children and parents after an inspector praised the school for being 'happy and inclusive'.

The report, published on July 16, has named the school 'outstanding' in all areas, an upgrade from its previous 2017 rating of 'good'. 

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Pupils and staff at Rucstall Primary SchoolPupils and staff at Rucstall Primary School (Image: Rucstall Primary School)

Inspectors have highlighted Rucstall Primary as a place 'where pupils thrive' as it 'supports all pupils to achieve their very best, regardless of whatever additional needs they may have'.

The report continues: "High ambition and the determination to achieve it are evident through all levels of the school's leadership. These values are reflected in the clear vision and high-quality provision that have been established in the school."

Teachers' expertise in their subjects has also been praised by inspectors, who noted that staff 'explain learning really well' and 'provide many opportunities for pupils to revisit prior knowledge'.

Provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been highlighted as 'aspirational'.

The report continues: "Teachers were skilful in making effective adaptations to how the curriculum is delivered when needed. This helps pupils with SEND to progress through the curriculum successfully alongside their peers."

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Inspectors also noted that pupils' wider development at the school is a 'real strength' with students learning about relationships, health and well-being, keeping safe at the school and 'living in the wider world'.

Mrs Griffiths said in a letter sent to parents and teachers at the school that the report is a 'simply superb recognition of what we offer the children at Rucstall'.

She explained that achieving an 'outstanding' grade has 'never been what our vision, values, aims, and outcomes had been about' and regardless of the report she will continue to 'ensure the best emotional and academic outcomes for every child'.

She concluded: "I hope we stand together proud. Proud of the Rucstall community and family that we have become. Proud of our children. And proud of ourselves, for supporting them to be the best."