Our Lady and St Benedict Catholic Academy (OLSB) is celebrating this week having received a highly coveted Outstanding report across the board from Ofsted. 

The Abbey Hulton based primary school is now only one of six primary schools in Stoke-on-Trent to have earned a place in the exclusive "Ofsted Outstanding" club.  

Having previously been rated as "Requires Improvements" in 2019, Headteacher, Sarah Clowes, who has been in post for 16 months, has worked tirelessly to make "rapid improvements" as noted in the latest report.  

Mrs Clowes said: "We are all immensely proud. I am delighted that the hard work and dedication of all of the staff has been recognised by Ofsted and they have clearly seen the very special place that OLSB is 'where love shines brightly'." 

The Ofsted report has awarded OLSB Outstanding across the board, which includes: Overall effectiveness; Quality of education; Behaviour and attitudes; Personal development; Leadership and management; and Early years provision.  

The school, on Abbey Lane, is one of only six primary schools in Stoke-on-Trent rated 'outstanding' (Google).

One excerpt from the report recognises the effectiveness of the school's values: "Strong relationships are at the heart of this inspirational school. The school's values are lived out by leaders, staff and pupils. Pupils appreciate the caring ethos of the school and they are inspired to achieve. Pupils are known, loved and feel safe. The school goes out of its way to connect with pupils' families who are met with understanding and compassion." 

Mrs Clowes added: "For our wonderful children and extended school community this is nothing more than they deserve. We are very proud to be part of The Newman Catholic Collegiate who have supported the school on its journey to Outstanding. It has been a huge team effort where rapid improvements have taken place which are allowing our children to flourish." 

The exemplary behaviour of the pupils at OLSB was also highlighted throughout the report with findings which include: "Pupils thrive as a result of the rapid improvements that have been made to the curriculum."  

"Pupil behaviour is impeccable. Learning is not disrupted by poor behaviour. There are harmonious relationships between pupils. Pupils are confident that if there are any problems between them, they will be quickly sorted out." 

A further quote from Ofsted highlighted the strength of the school leaders: "Leaders at all levels are clearly focussed on ensuring that all pupils succeed and that any barriers to success are removed. This shared vision has been instrumental in enabling the school to make rapid progress. The actions of leaders have made a huge contribution to the outstanding education that is provided." 

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