Evergreen Primary Academy has been rated ‘good’ by education watchdog Ofsted, with inspectors praising its ‘outstanding’ leadership and pupil development.
The Bristol school – part of the Cabot Learning Federation – was judged as ‘inclusive and diverse’, where leaders ‘go above and beyond’ in support of pupils. Inspectors also heralded Evergreen’s high standards of behaviour, pastoral support, safeguarding and ‘drive for excellence’.
The assessment represents a seismic leap from Evergreen’s previous judgement of ‘inadequate’ – an improvement which reflects the hard work put in by all staff at the academy.
Ofsted’s report said, ‘Pupils are at the heart of this inclusive and diverse school. The Evergreen values of ‘be safe, respectful and caring’ are lived out by all members of the school community. Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the education their children receive. One parent commented that ‘Evergreen Primary Academy is a school that provides a healthy environment for children to study’.”
Jan Saunders, Principal of Evergreen Academy, said, “I am delighted for the school and the community that it has been recognised that the Academy provides a good educational offer which enables our pupils to achieve well and are very well supported in developing as citizens. We look forward to our onwards journey and the exciting future for the community.”
Ofsted’s inspection team offered a glowing endorsement of Evergreen’s provision in a number of areas.
On, inspectors said: ‘Leaders have high expectations of what all pupils can strive towards. Pupils develop positive attitudes to their learning. Leaders provide pupils with a wide range of opportunities beyond the curriculum. These include being members of the academy council, eco-committee and e-safety champions.
‘Leaders provide exceptionally well for pupils’ personal development. They go above and beyond to ensure all pupils build character and self-confidence. Pupils have a personal, social and health education curriculum that enables all to develop into responsible citizens. Staff provide extensive opportunities for pupils to talk about current issues. Pupils feel confident to bring their own experiences into debates and discussions. As a result, they contribute positively to their community and the wider world.
On pupils with English as a second language, Ofsted said: ‘Leaders prioritise reading. Many pupils join the school with little knowledge of the English language. Staff adapt the phonics programme to meet pupils’ individual language needs, including visual prompts and signing. Leaders ensure staff have the expertise to support those who find the early stages of reading tricky.”
On pupil behaviour, inspectors said, ‘Pupils build effective and highly positive relationships with adults. They behave well in lessons. Low-level disruption is rare. Pupils understand what bullying is. They say it can happen but that adults sort it out quickly.
On pupils with SEND, Ofsted said, “Leaders know their pupils very well, including those with SEND. Their close working with families ensures pupils’ needs are carefully identified. Staff provide tailored support, including for those pupils with social and emotional needs. This ensures pupils access learning effectively.”
Kate Richardson, Executive Principal for the Cabot Learning Federation, said, “We are delighted with the outcome of the inspection at Evergreen Primary Academy; this school sits at the heart of our trust and has, over time, benefitted from the support and guidance of many leaders within the Cabot Learning Federation. We are deeply invested in this community and couldn’t be prouder of our children, colleagues and families.”