A short tale from a very small school regarding a 'visit' in June

After a year of waiting the dreaded 'Ofsted call' came and being such a small school there was nobody in the office to take the first few calls as we were all on the playground. After the call there was frantic rushing around emailing the correct paperwork and making sure that the Inspection File was up to date. Having undergone 3 inspections over the last 9 years we are very aware of Ofsted's little foibles; we read all his previous reports and noted down different targets. I bought some very posh biscuits, orange juice and water to keep the inspector fully watered, fed and happy.

The next day arrived and we all waited in a slightly anxious state. Needless to say the inspector was charming and friendly. However, because of our very small cohorts his opening statement to both myself and the staff was 'Your Raise Online data is abominable' and explained that we would have to fight hard to get a good judgement. The inspector 'popped' in and out of approximately 10 lessons over two days, which bearing in mind we only have two classes kept everyone on their toes. We completed a joint book scrutiny and made judgements on marking and progress shown. The final day was spent convincing the inspector that 'Raise Online' for small schools cannot be used in isolation, our in house tracking system was far more meaningful and pertinent. After long discussions he agreed and judged our progress as good. By the end of the process I was happy, my staff were happy with the judgements, however the children felt that it was unfair as they think we are all 'outstanding'.

After the last inspection we celebrated and were on a 'high' for the rest of the year. This time, however, it felt rather deflating. Due to the changes in the reporting procedures and template we felt that the report did not truly reflect our school. Small schools have an amazing capacity of turning children around and closing the gaps, especially for those children who did not flourish in bigger schools and there is no mention of this good work, as it cannot be measured I assume! So for all of you out there who are waiting for the 'call' do not worry, fight tooth and nail for your schools and Ofsted can be 'turned'! We wish you all luck and get in touch if you need support.

Amanda Rogers
Head teacher
South Stoke Primary School