AN ABINGDON primary school deemed to be inadequate by Ofsted for three-and-a-half years is finally making “good” progress, according to the education watchdog.
Ofsted inspector Christopher Russell said pupils at Thameside Primary School were making better progress in lessons, and behaviour, teaching and attendance were all improving.
The school was first put into ‘special measures’ in January 2008. After four further inspections, Ofsted said the school no longer needed ‘special measures’ in July 2009, even though it was still deemed ‘inadequate’.
But, just 15 months later, inspectors found standards had slipped once again and the school was put back into special measures. Ofsted said there was a lack of challenge in lessons, teaching was “typically inadequate” and attainment and progress of more able pupils was less than it should be.
Headteacher of six years Sally Crowther resigned in March after a period on long-term sick leave, and assistant headteacher Anna Grice took over as acting head.
Joseph Rubba, the head of St Mary’s Infants School in Witney, will take over at the Cotman Close school in September.
The school remains in special measures.
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