STAFF and pupils are celebrating after turning around the fortunes of their oncetroubled school.

William Read Primary School, in Long Road, Canvey, secured a good rating from Ofsted after an inspection last month.

It comes nearly two years after the school was ordered to improve because of concerns about teachers not using time effectively, a limited range of subjects and slow progress in writing.

In the latest Ofsted report, which will be released publicly next week, inspectors praised “ambitious” headteacher Jackie Gosnold for driving up standards.

They also found: 

  • Pupils achieve well in most subjects, especially reading, writing and maths 
  • Behaviour is good and bullying is tackled effectively, with various roles in the school council and junior leadership team enabling children to take on responsibility 
  • Pupils with special educational needs make good progress because of effective academic and emotional support 
  • Teachers have forged positive relationships with pupils, helping children feel safe and secure at school
  • Governors make a good contribution to the school, asking questions about how it is run

Mrs Gosnold, who started her role at William Read in 2008, said: “It’s been quite a journey for a school.

“We’ve been good before, but then got a requires improvement rating for various reasons.

“We’re delighted to be good again.

“This is all down to everyone working together, and I couldn’t have got here without the rest of the staff.”

The primary school, which has 412 pupils on its roll, has been told to improve marking and monitor absences better to get on track to becoming outstanding.

Kelly Stock, the lead Ofsted inspector, said in the report: “Despite the turnover in staff, the headteacher’s strong vision for the school has led to all staff having a common sense of purpose to improve, which contributes to rising standards of behaviour and teaching.

“She has developed effective links with outstanding schools in the local area and further afield to identify best practice.

“As a result of these initiatives, the school promotes equality of opportunity well and tackles any discrimination effectively.”