Ark Priory Rated 'Outstanding' in All Areas
Ofsted inspectors remain impressed a decade after last visit
Pupils from Ark Priory celebrate the school's report
July 8, 2025
Ark Priory Primary Academy, a two-form entry primary school on Acton Lane, has been rated Outstanding in all areas following an Ofsted inspection last month.
It was ten years since the last inspection when the school was also rated as Outstanding.
Ark Priory was also graded Outstanding at its last inspection in June 2015, meaning it has maintained its Outstanding rating for a decade. Although, Ofsted no longer gives an overall effectiveness grade, the award of the top rating in every category makes it certain that the previous level would have been maintained.
The Ofsted report published this week says that “pupils thrive in a nurturing, ambitious and inclusive environment where high expectations are the norm”.
The inspection highlighted the school's ambitious and inclusive environment, underpinned by a strong moral purpose and a well-structured curriculum. Pupils benefit from expert teaching, enriching experiences such as cultural trips, and a commitment to personal development. Reading is a priority, with early phonics taught effectively and a wide-ranging reading programme that fosters curiosity and maturity in older pupils.
The school supports children with special educational needs and disabilities exceptionally well, providing tailored interventions and high-quality guidance according to the inspectors. Behaviour across the school was described as exemplary, with pupils showing respect, motivation, and a clear sense of responsibility. Staff morale was found to be high, and leaders have successfully managed workload pressures while maintaining a pupil-focused culture. The school's leadership, both at the local and trust level, was found to be strategic and effective, ensuring that strengths are maintained and areas for development continually addressed. Safeguarding arrangements were judged to be effective.
Executive Principal Daniela Grasso said, “I’m thrilled that our hard work and commitment has been recognised by Ofsted again.
“Ark Priory is a warm, happy and safe place to learn and grow. We’re proud to be delivering such a high standard education to all our children.
“I’d like to thank our whole school community for their continued support.”
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