Steiner Academy in Frome: ‘A good school’

April 2014

Following a two day visit at the end of February 2014, the Ofsted report concluded that pupils ‘achieve well, both academically and socially’, thanks to the staff‘s ‘unwavering attention to meeting the needs of each pupil.’

Staff are ‘well-qualified’ and ensure pupils’ progress through ‘judicious use of tests in reading, spelling and mathematics.’ Pupils’ behaviour is ‘good’ and they have a ‘strong sense of themselves’, an ‘inner confidence’ and ‘an awareness of the values of working collaboratively’. Inspectors also praised the children’s imagination and creativity, innate love of learning and respect for others.

The Ofsted report highlights the Principal’s creation of ‘a strong culture of learning amongst staff and pupils’, his ‘commendable’ attention to monitoring and evaluation and his ‘excellent working relationship’ with the governors.

Principal, Trevor Mepham, commented, ‘An Ofsted inspection is a challenge for any school and I am pleased this report acknowledges the high quality and breadth of education offered by the distinctive Steiner curriculum. Against a difficult backdrop of establishing a new school in temporary accommodation, staff have worked with care and skill to create a strong sense of community and enable every child to flourish and it is right that their commitment and achievements have been praised by Ofsted.’

Guy Marson, Chair of Governors, commented, ‘After just four and a half terms in existence, I am delighted with this rating. The Ofsted report praised Trevor Mepham as a ‘passionate and experienced’ Principal, and I would like to acknowledge the Governing Body’s appreciation to Trevor for his inspiring and thoughtful leadership. Looking ahead, development on the Park Road site is now underway and we are looking forward to taking up residence in our permanent Frome location in the autumn.’

The full Ofsted report can be accessed here