Federation to save school’s future

Education leaders say a Herefordshire primary school which was threatened with closure several years ago has now secured a long-term future.

St Weonards Primary School in the south of the county had only 20 pupils on roll in 2017.

The headteacher and governors at the time were unable to set a budget for the school to function effectively.

But thanks to more pupils signing up go to the school and the introduction of flexi-schooling, it was announced last year that the outstanding school would not close.

Chief executive Peter Box has now said St Weonards will join the Herefordshrie Marches Federation of Academies Multi Academy Trust in September.

“The school has thrived since it’s inspection,” he said.

“The offer of flexi-schooling has been a great success and the St Weonards kitchen has expanded its work to provide meals for itself, Clehonger, Lord Scudamore and Llangrove.

“We are all delighted that we have secured the long-term future of the school and look forward to formally welcoming them into the trust in September.”

Ofsted inspectors last visited the school in November 2017.

Their report found that it was outstanding and praised school leaders and staff.

“The school’s effectiveness has improved markedly as a result of the efforts of current leaders and governors,” the report read.

“They have worked tirelessly to bring about substantial and sustained improvements to teaching, learning and pupils’ outcomes.

“Everyone looks out for one another in this small, caring school.

“Relationships between pupils and staff are warm and supportive.

“The rich and varied curriculum enhances pupils’ experiences a great deal and promotes their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development very well.”