THE first no-notice inspection for Abbey Meads Primary passed with few hitches as the school retained its good grades.

Unannounced inspections started across England in September, and Abbey Meads headteacher Bob Buckley said there should be no change in teaching practices for any inspection.

While the team was forced to scramble for paperwork on the day of the visit, inspectors left impressed and have now given the school good grades across the board for the second time in a row.

Mr Buckley said: “If you are going to be inspected you would hope you are being inspected based on what you would do on a daily basis.

“What I would say is that both the inspection team and the school found themselves at a disadvantage, because there is a degree of paperwork which needs to be done that makes it more difficult if you are not aware they are coming.

“You can’t change the outcome of an inspection with half a day’s notice, but you can provide paperwork for the team to see on the day, so the no notice is a disadvantage for the school in that respect.

“Gone are the days when judgements are made because people can plan ahead and have a good day.”

Mr Buckley said changes to standards implemented by Ofsted last year indicate the school is on an upward trajectory.

“The word from the inspectors was that under no circumstances must we think that things have stood still,” he said.

“The standards expected have increased so much that by achieving such a good level it is an indication of the school moving forward.

“When you look at each individual section for improvement they are all fine tunings. For the sake of our children we always aspire to be understanding, and we are in many respects.”

Richard Light, lead inspector, wrote of the school: “The ambition and vision of the headteacher are fundamental to pupils’ good achievement and the positive ethos created at the school.

“Senior and middle leaders support the headteacher well. They blend their knowledge, skills and expertise well to secure further improvements.

“This strengthens the overall leadership of the school considerably.

“Parents, staff and pupils are unanimous in their praise for the ongoing developments at the school.

“The united drive for improvement combined with effective teamwork results in a culture where all want to do the best they can for each other and the pupils in their care.

“Staff are extremely respectful and thoughtful to ensure that pupils’ individual needs are met.

“Consequently, pupils model this behaviour towards each other in lessons and respond well to the school reward system, which focuses on manners, politeness and respect.

“Teaching is good, with some that is outstanding. Teachers bring learning alive for pupils when they use their good subject knowledge to link activities in different subjects.”