Richard Hill Church of England Primary School in Thurcaston has earned praise from Ofsted inspectors for fostering a “happy,” “safe,” and “nurturing” learning environment, marking a notable turnaround since its previous inspection.
The primary school, located on Anstey Lane and part of the Learn Academies Trust, recently received a “Good” rating following an inspection in May. This comes after a 2022 report had rated the school as “requires improvement,” citing issues with some staff’s subject knowledge and inconsistencies in teaching across various subjects.
Enthusiastic Learners and Dedicated Teachers
In the latest report, Ofsted described the school as a place where pupils are “enthusiastic about their learning” and benefit from “exciting lessons.” Inspectors highlighted the school’s calm atmosphere, inclusive approach, and strong support system—especially for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
“Pupils feel safe and supported,” the report stated. “The school takes deliberate steps to ensure that all children, including those with SEND, are included in every aspect of school life.”
The school’s curriculum was commended for being broad and well-organized, enabling pupils to develop strong knowledge and skills across all subjects. Teachers were recognized for effectively adapting lessons to meet diverse needs, reinforcing the school’s core belief that there should be “no ceiling” on what students can achieve.
Strong Support from Parents and Staff
The report also reflected highly on the views of parents and carers, many of whom expressed appreciation for both the quality of education and the school’s attention to pastoral care. Staff morale was reported as “high,” with one team member telling inspectors they had “never felt so supported in a role.”
Leadership Welcomes Recognition
Headteacher Sally Applebee expressed pride in the school’s progress since the 2022 inspection. “Over the past three years, we’ve focused intensively on making the improvements needed to strengthen teaching and support across the board,” she said. “We’re thrilled that Ofsted has recognised our efforts and rated us ‘Good’ in every area.”
She also acknowledged the dedication of her team: “Everyone at Richard Hill has worked tirelessly. Our staff, students, and families have come together to build something really special. The culture in our school is vibrant, and our pupils continue to thrive.”
A Bright Future Ahead
With renewed confidence in its teaching, curriculum, and leadership, Richard Hill Primary School now stands as a shining example of how schools can turn challenges into opportunities. Inspectors concluded that the school is well-positioned to continue on its upward path—offering a strong, inclusive education for all its pupils.
