First Ofsted inspection joy at the newest school in Bognor Regis

Three Ofsted inspectors have published their report after an initial visit to Southway Primary School.

Lead inspector David Marshall said: “The high-quality curriculum has evolved well around a selection of topics to inspire pupils to learn.

“Projects involving hands-on activities to promote literacy are successfully raising pupils’ achievements and interests in reading and writing.

“There are many examples across the school of good and skilful teaching where the pace of learning is maintained with timely reminders to pupils of what needs to be achieved and where confident well-thought-out activities promote pupils’ interests and skills.”

He gave the school in South Way an overall rating of satisfactory. The standard of teaching was improving rapidly, though some inconsistencies remained. But the work to create a new school from two existing ones had been carried out well.

“The very experienced, dynamic, senior leaders have enabled the amalgamated school to become established in its own right very quickly,” he said.

Headteacher Matthew Westgarth said: “I am delighted the hard work of the Southway team was recognised by Ofsted.

“This is the first step in our drive to become an outstanding school.

“The report makes pleasing reading and recognises all that has been done not just to raise standards, but to make Southway the safe and happy school it is.”

Diane Willson, who chairs the school’s governors, said: “I am pleased Ofsted has recognised how far the school has come in such a short time.

“There is no doubt the school is on track for making even greater progress. All those involved with the school must feel very proud of its achievements.”

Southway has 595 pupils. It opened in September 2010 after Michael Ayres junior and The Glade infant schools moved in that January.