A WIDNES school has completely turned it around with a ‘glowing’ Ofsted inspection having been previously slammed as inadequate by the education watchdogs.

Ditton Primary School in Widnes was graded good in all areas in its most recent inspection.

The Liverpool Road school became an academy when it joined Warrington Primary Academy Trust in 2019 but prior to that had been graded the lowest rating possible.

Inspectors said that the school had ‘acted decisively to address previous weaknesses in the curriculum, attendance and behaviour’ since joining the trust.

They added: “The school has established a new, coherent curriculum from the early years to the end of Year 6.

“The curriculum supports pupils to build their knowledge in a logical order.

“The school has prioritised reading. Pupils enjoy listening to stories and reading a wide range of books.

“Leaders have established an effective phonics curriculum from the beginning of the Reception Year.”

Inspectors observed that pupils are happy and enjoy coming into the school.

The said: “Pupils value the caring relationships that they have with staff. Pupils trust that staff will help them with any concerns.

“This makes pupils feel safe at school.”

Safeguarding arrangements were also described as effective.

The report added: “Pupils appreciate the vast array of after-school clubs on offer to them. They benefit from leadership roles.

“For example, pupils are proud of the school library and the roles that they have as librarians. Pupils appreciate the opportunities that they have to explore their interests and talents, including learning to play musical instruments, such as the acoustic guitar.”

Head of Ditton, Janette Pyne, said: “This report is testimony to the sheer commitment of our staff and colleagues across Warrington Primary Academy Trust, as well as the support of our fantastic parents and wider school community.

“I’m sure everyone is as proud as I am of the improvements that have been made since the last inspection.”