Ofsted inspectors have praised the “strong vision” and sense of community at Leys Junior School in a new report detailing how it continues to be ‘good’ overall.

Inspectors visited the Flowery Leys Lane school in June this year for an ungraded inspection – carried out every four years to ensure a ‘good’ setting continues to meet the required standards.

It was the second inspection of its kind since the Alfreton school was rated ‘good’ in 2014.

A report published by Ofsted on September 18, praises school leaders for having a strong vision for pupils and for the sense of community felt by children, staff and parents alike.

It states: “This is a school where staff care for pupils and want the very best for them.

“Leaders, including governors, have a strong vision. They have ensured that values, including ambition and independence, are woven through every aspect of school life.

“Pupils and staff together form a happy community. Parents and carers value the work of staff.

“One parent’s comment captured the views of many as they shared, ‘The schools is like one big family that I am happy to be part of’.”

In the report, inspectors also give credit to staff for working hard to address gaps in learning created by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The report says: “This work is now paying off. Pupils enjoy learning. They take pride in their work.

“Pupils like learning new skills together. For example, they have regular opportunities to learn how to cook healthy meals together.”

Nic Way, executive head teacher of Leys Junior School, has welcomed the report.

She said: “During the inspection the inspector took time to speak to our children, staff and school community and learn about our school.

“We felt, because of this, that the inspector really captured the heart of Leys Junior and the vision that we have for all our pupils.

“I’d like to thank all our governors, staff, pupils, their families, and the whole school community for all their hard work, to make Leys Junior School an amazing place for children to ‘learn, grow and flourish’.”

Leys Junior School will host an Open Evening for prospective parents today (Wednesday, September 27) between 3.45pm and 5pm.

You can read the full report here.

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