Knottingley primary school keeps its good Ofsted grade

Simpson’s Lane Academy, in Knottingley, retained this status after its most recent inspection from the watchdog last month.

Under the latest inspection framework good schools receive a shorter visit which can be extended if Ofsted inspectors have concerns.

A letter to Simpson’s Lane Academy’s head Sarah Annable says the school continues to be good and praises the impact it has on pupils’ education.

It says: “You and your leadership team have maintained the good quality of education in the school.” Inspectors say she has developed “a caring and nurturing environment.”

Inspectors add: “This has led you to take appropriate and effective action to help pupils continue to make good progress, often from very low starting points. Despite many children starting the school well below where they should be for their age, there is a no-excuse culture and leaders do not see these challenges as barriers to a pupil’s success.”

The letter also praises the school’s work with parents. Inspectors say: “Tremendous efforts are made to successfully engage parents and help them understand how well their children are attending and achieving.”