Kettlesing Felliscliffe CP School
Crag Lane
Felliscliffe
Harrogate
HG3 2LB
01423 770576

3rd March 2023

Dear Parents and Carers,

I am delighted to attach the letter from the recent Ofsted monitoring visit at Beckwithshaw School.

‘Swift and effective action has been taken to make improvements...clear and decisive plans set out ambitious and realistic targets for suture improvement.’

What an immense effort from all stakeholders including you as our well-respected Parents and Carers of the Federation.

As you are aware, in December 2021, Beckwithshaw was judged by Ofsted to be Inadequate and was subject to an Academy Order. Whereas a monitoring visit cannot change the judgement, if positive it can trigger a further monitoring visit and full inspection at which point the judgement is subject to change. Due to the success of the monitoring visit, we now eagerly await a further visit.

‘The atmosphere in the school is purposeful, happy and focused.’

At Beckwithshaw, phonics was a key priority from the previous inspection and I am proud that:

‘Staff follow the school’s chosen approach to teaching phonics with consistency. Staff quickly identify and give extra support to any pupils who may need help to keep up with learning. Resources are matched to pupils’ phonics knowledge well.’

The curriculum was also a priority however we now have a curriculum model that, when implemented with rigour and consistency, ensures children receive educational excellence from the offset. Inspectors recognised that:

‘The determination to swiftly put in place a curriculum for all subjects has ensured that teachers are now supported to plan for learning in mixed-age classes.’

The work of all staff within the federation working together was also praised.

‘Expertise from within the federation of schools and also from external sources is utilised effectively. Experienced practitioners from beyond the federation are enabling leaders within the school to develop confidence and expertise. Staff are enthusiastic and excited about their future ideas to support pupils’ learning.

This school-to-school support model is ensuring the children in this local community are flourishing.

Again, we could not have done this without the continued drive, commitment and unwavering support of all stakeholders.

Of course, there are always areas to continue to develop however we have already identified these and as you can imagine, already have plans in place to address.

This monitoring visit is something for us all to feel hugely proud of and we continue to work tirelessly as a team to ensure the future success of not only Beckwithshaw, but Kettlesing and Ripley also.

Thank you all for your continued support.

Yours sincerely,

V. Kirkman

Executive Interim Headteacher