THE Holme Primary School in Headley is celebrating after receiving its first "good" judgment by Ofsted.

Inspectors praised leaders’ commitment, enthusiasm and their “relentless focus” on improving teaching.

The rating underlines the changes at school which, in the 25 years since Ofsted began inspecting, had only ever been ranked “satisfactory” or “requires improvement”. The school left local-authority control having been placed in special measures following an Ofsted inspection in 2012.

As such, it became an academy in the Diocese of Guildford’s multi-academy trust, The Good Shepherd Trust, in September 2013.

Headteacher Ruth Worswick, who took up her post in September 2014, was praised for uniting the school community in a “wholehearted drive for improvement”, with support from parents, staff and pupils.

Now, following the inspection last month, the school has been judged “good” in all areas, with pupils described as well-behaved, kind, thoughtful and respectful. 

“We are delighted that we finally have a school which the whole village deserves,” Ms Worswick said. “We have wonderful children and families as well as remarkable community support. Our success comes from how well we work together - the school, church, parents, governors and volunteers.  

“We all have the highest aspirations for our children and the drive and determination of everyone has been key in moving us forward. I am incredibly proud to lead such an inspirational and positive staff, who provide the best possible education for our children every day.

“I would like to acknowledge the immense hard work and commitment of everyone involved as we look to the future.”

Parent Claire Turner added: “After being at this school for 11 years as a parent, the school is now the best that it has ever been and on the rise every day.

“The children come to school every day happy, knowing that, as well as having a friendly environment, they are also going to get a good education in the best way possible.”

The Good Shepherd Trust, which supports 11 academies across the Diocese of Guildford, was ranked 17th out of 218 local authorities and academy trusts in league tables published in July 2016 based on pupils’ outcomes. Its interim chief executive officer David Brown said: “We are delighted with the excellent progress The Holme School has made under Ruth’s committed leadership. The Ofsted report reflects the reality that this is a school which pupils, staff, parents, governors and the entire community can justifiably be proud of.

“Congratulations to The Holme and we look forward to continuing to work alongside staff as together we live out our vision to ensure pupils get the very best education they deserve.”