Wroxall Primary Celebrates Ofsted Success After Threat Of Closure

Wroxall Primary School has been rated Good across all areas by Ofsted, marking a remarkable turnaround after facing the threat of closure last year.

Inspectors praised the school’s quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision following a visit in July.

The result comes just two years after the school was told it required improvement.

In 2023, Wroxall was earmarked for closure under Isle of Wight Council plans to reduce surplus places.

However, after a determined community campaign, the proposal was scrapped in March.

Ofsted highlighted the school’s “high expectations” and said many pupils achieve well across the curriculum and enjoy their learning.

Teachers were commended for their strong subject knowledge and support for pupils with special educational needs, while inspectors also noted children’s enthusiasm for cultural and outdoor activities on the Island and in London.

The report did identify areas for further improvement, including strengthening leadership in some foundation subjects and ensuring more effective systems to assess how well pupils are learning.

Headteacher Tara Hopkinson said the outcome was a proud moment for the whole community:

“Last year was a challenging year for Wroxall, and to end it with such a positive inspection outcome was most welcome.

"We would like to thank our children for always being hardworking, polite and kind, and our wonderful staff team for their unwavering commitment.”

She added there is a “mighty future” ahead for the “small village school at the heart of the community.”

The school’s governing body also welcomed the result, saying inspectors had recognised the pride the local community has in its “welcoming and friendly school.”

Governors added:

“We are fiercely proud of the headteacher, staff, children and whole school community who have continued to focus relentlessly on school improvement throughout what has been a difficult year.”