Ofsted Outstanding!

Valley Invicta Academies Trust (VIAT) is thrilled to announce that Valley Invicta Primary School at Aylesford has been rated ‘Outstanding’ following an Ofsted inspection on 10 and 11 May 2023.

Headteacher, Billy Harrington, said: “We are absolutely overjoyed to have received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted, following our inspection a few weeks ago. This result reflects the ongoing hard work and commitment of all our pupils, parents, governors, and, of course, our fantastic team of staff.  We are extremely proud of the way in which the report comments that: ‘Pupils thrive at this exciting, nurturing and inclusive school. There is a welcoming, friendly and purposeful atmosphere and a strong sense of community. Pupils are happy and enjoy learning. Parents appreciate this culture, with one saying, ‘Strong leadership from the top, coupled with excellent teaching and support staff, makes for a very happy environment. ‘The school’s values of respect, resilience, responsibility, cooperation and individuality are deeply embedded and very ably demonstrated by the pupils in all that they do.’ Our pupils are, and always will be, our absolute priority and we want the very best for each and every one of them.  I’m so pleased this result gives them another huge positive to be really proud of.”

The report also states: ‘The headteacher is determined and uncompromising in his drive to ensure that all pupils, including the most disadvantaged and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), have the very best learning experiences. As a result, leaders have created an impressive and vibrant curriculum. Teachers build on pupils’ knowledge and skills exceptionally well.’

There is also praise, within the report, for reading, the personal development curriculum and the school’s safeguarding arrangements.

The report comes after ‘Good’ Ofsted ratings in November 2016 and January 2022.

Julie Derrick, CEO of Valley Invicta Academies Trust (VIAT), said: “I am so proud of everyone at the school. It is an amazing outcome and testament to the hard work of Mr Harrington and the staff team. The pupils at the school are delightful and absolutely deserve to be proud of themselves. The report eloquently describes what a wonderful place Aylesford is to learn. As a Trust, we all work tirelessly to provide the very best for our pupils across every one of our schools. This Ofsted report shows that the hard work has paid off – to be deemed outstanding in every area is a huge achievement and a clear demonstration of the dedication and passion of our pupils, staff, parents and governors.” 

You can read the full report here: https://www.aylesford.viat.org.uk/2209/information/category/30/ofsted