SIAMS issues ‘exemplary’ report on Lowdham Church of England Primary School adding to success of Outstanding Ofsted grade

An outstanding school is celebrating further success after receiving another faultless inspection within 12 months.

Lowdham Church of England Primary has achieved an ‘Exemplary’ report from SIAMS — the body responsible for inspecting church schools across the country.

The report states that the school, which caters for five to 11-year-olds, is a place of ‘kindness, compassion and unwavering care’.

It follows an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted report from last summer, where Lowdham became the only school in Nottinghamshire to retain an Outstanding rating.

SIAMS inspectors praised the school’s ‘exemplary leadership’, inclusive and supportive curriculum, and its nurturing environment.

It comes in new head teacher Matt Jones’ first year in charge, after he moved to Lowdham from a school in London last September.

Mr Jones said he hoped to help the school continue the level of success established by his predecessor Ben Waldram and the school’s hard working staff.

“When I arrived here and learnt about the school it was clear to see why they have achieved what they have,” he said.

“Since I’ve been in post a lot of what I have done is in preparation for the SIAMS inspection, and really celebrating our school community.

“I’m extremely proud of the everyone — parents, governors, staff, and of course our amazing children.

“I think the report is a true reflection of our identity as a Church of England school and what sets us apart from any other school is it’s very rare to have two inspections within 12 months and to perform so well.”

The school’s motto is ‘Shine Like Stars’ which the report states underpins all aspects of the school.

Inspectors also praised the ‘exceptional quality’ of RE lessons, which provided children with a deep understanding of Christianity as a global faith.

They added that lessons were ‘meticulously planned and expertly delivered’ and helped to foster respect, empathy and appreciation for the beliefs and traditions of others — which in turn promote a culture of inclusivity and tolerance within the school.

Children are also exposed to a diverse range of religious practices, beliefs and cultures.

Mr Jones said: “We are very proud of our church identity, but I do think people have a misconception about faith schools.

“These church schools were set up to serve the community and we are inclusive of all faiths and religions.

“So when the report writes ‘this is a place where everyone is welcomed and encouraged to thrive in a nurturing, accepting culture’, that’s what it’s all about, it doesn’t get any better than that.”

The school plans to continue building its relationship with the community and encouraging its pupils to engage with extra curricular activities.

Reflecting on his first year as head, Mr Jones, said: “It has been an absolute priveldge.

“I knew when I first walked into the school that there was something very special here.

“The relationships between staff and children, the learning environments, the capacity to learn and thrive, it’s wonderful and I’m immensely proud of all we have accomplished as a team.

“I think it’s also important to understand that staff are our biggest resource and schools should invest in them and develop them.

“It’s all about finding ways that we as a school can flourish and provide opportunities and prepare our children for the world.”