Ofsted’s praise for improvement in South Holland schools

South Holland schools have been praised for significantly improving the quality of leadership, management and teaching.

The words of approval came from Chris Russell who is the regional director for Ofsted in the East Midlands.

Lincolnshire County Council had identified in 2013 that pupil outcomes in primary schools in rural areas of South Holland were too low and standards in reading, writing and mathematics needed to improve. However, three years on and after a successful plans were introduced to tackle underachievement, almost nine out of every ten pupils living in the South Holland area now attend “good or better” schools.

There are also clear signs of improved outcomes for pupils in South Holland schools.

In a letter to council director of children’s services, Debbie Barnes, Mr Russell said: “I write to congratulate you and your colleagues in Lincolnshire for working successfully to significantly increase the proportion of pupils living in the South Holland area who attend ‘good or better’ schools.”

He went on to highlight the successful strategies that have made such a difference in South Holland.

Mrs Barnes said: “We want to ensure all pupils receive a very high standard of education and achieve well.
“When we see areas of underachievement, we are determined to put that right – all children deserve the best opportunities.
“As the educational landscape becomes ever more challenging, it’s pleasing to see our efforts with South Holland schools make a real impression for children and young people in the area.”

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