A primary school in Walsall has been recognised as one of the best in the Midlands, despite being situated in one of the most deprived and high-crime areas of the country. Reedswood E-ACT Primary Academy, located near Walsall town centre, recently became one of the first schools in the region to receive three 'exceptional' ratings under Ofsted's new inspection system.
Exceptional Ofsted Ratings
The school, which caters to children aged 3 to 11 and has around 500 pupils, was rated exceptional in three categories: achievement, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing. This achievement is particularly notable given the challenges faced by schools in disadvantaged areas.
Overcoming the Odds
Ofsted noted that deprivation in the school's location is "well above average." Despite this, the watchdog's report stated: "Whatever their starting points, pupils at this school make remarkable progress. Year after year, pupils’ progress and attainment in national tests and assessments are significantly higher than average."
The report attributed this success to the school's "unwavering commitment to securing pupils’ essential knowledge in English and mathematics," which enables pupils to "maximise every opportunity for learning." It also praised the broad curriculum for offering "many high-quality opportunities to excel."
Strong Leadership
Ofsted highlighted the quality of leadership as "superb," noting that leaders have driven "continual improvement across all areas of the school’s work." The report added: "Notably, pupils’ achievement and personal development have risen to truly exceptional levels and all in the school community feel a keen sense of belonging."
Neighbouring Goldsmith Primary Academy in Bloxwich also achieved exceptional ratings, marking a double success for Walsall. Both schools are part of the E-ACT multi-academy trust.
