DNEAT MAT News

St Michael’s Church of England Academy in King’s Lynn, part of the Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT), has received an overall effectiveness rating of ‘good.’

The school that has 199 pupils from ages four to 11 received a two-day onsite inspector visit carried out on 31^st October and 1^st November 2023.

The glowing report considered the overall effectiveness, including, the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, the early years provision and the academies’ personal development – all deemed to be ‘good.’

Oliver Burwood, CEO of Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust said:

“This report is testament to what a school can achieve with ongoing strong and effective leadership and I am proud that this and other DNEAT academies have this in place. Emma and her team’s mantra of ‘every child counts at our school’ shines through in all that is school does for its children and community.”

Inspectors commented on the “warm and positive relationships” between staff and pupils and the “strong sense of community” the school provides. They were also very confident that the school has effective safeguarding procedures in place, and strong support systems for families and children.

Highlights from the inspector’s report includes ‘that expectations are high’ and ‘pupils rise to the challenge’ behaving well and working happily together.

The inspector noted that the leaders are ambitious for all, and the school holds the view that every pupil counts and strive to ensure that the school provides the best it can.

Head teacher, Mrs Emma Scarisbrick said: “Our curriculum is described as “carefully considered” and “ambitious for all pupils.” The inspectors recognised the challenges we face in raising standards but could see clearly that children make good progress at St Michael’s. We have been asked to continue to develop our use of assessment so that more children reach age related expectations.  I am particularly pleased how the report notes that reading “is a school priority” and that the “quality of phonics teaching is strong.” As a result, children “get off to a strong start in learning to read.”