The report, which was based on an inspection of the school in June, found that overall the school was ‘Good’ and that Personal Development was ‘Outstanding’. This represents a significant step forward for the school which was rated as ‘Requires Improvement’ at its previous inspection.

The report had much to say about the school including:

‘Pupils achieve very well at Ferndale Primary School. Leaders have high expectations for what all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), can achieve. The curriculum is ambitious, and pupils study all the subjects in the national curriculum.

‘Classrooms and corridors are calm and orderly. Pupils know there is always an adult to speak to. Bullying is very rare, and staff resolve any disagreements promptly and effectively. Pupils feel safe and happy.’

Headteacher of Ferndale Primary, Ruth Gillett, said:

“I am incredibly proud of the whole school community. Ferndale is a special place to be and the inspection team recognised how important the ‘Ferndale family’ is to us all. Our journey has included support from Sandwell’s School Improvement Team and hard work by everyone, including our wonderful children.’

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for children and education, Councillor Simon Hackett, said:

“This is great news for the whole school community. It’s another example of why we should all celebrate Sandwell and just shows that when pupils, parents, teachers and other staff pull together wonderful progress can be made. I would like to thank everyone involved in achieving this for ensuring that Sandwell’s children get the best start. I look forward to even more improvements.”