How school judged 'inadequate' has started its journey to becoming 'outstanding'

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Bluebell Meadow Primary School, in Elwick View, Trimdon Village, officially became sponsored by Hartlepool-based Eden Academy Trust in September of last year following its disappointing 2019 Ofsted report.

Despite the difficulties caused by the ongoing pandemic, the school has started its journey to hopefully becoming an outstanding school.

The relocation of the school onto one site, significant changes to the internal fabric of the building and curriculum improvements are seen as factors in its improvement.

From left, Bluebell Meadow Primary's deputy head teacher Emma Allison with Year 5 pupils Alethea May and Connor Wilkinson and Year 2 pupils Finley Storey and Alice Musgrave.

A recent survey of parents also indicates that 99% – up from 36% a year ago – would recommend the school to others.

Neil Nottingham, the school’s executive head and the trust’s chief executive officer, said: “Our key drive is to provide each and every child with the outstanding education they deserve.

“We want to make their learning environment so amazing they can’t wait to get into school, provide a curriculum that is going to prepare children for life and, importantly, make Bluebell Meadow a School all children, parents and community members are proud to be a part of.”

Another significant development is the closer relationship between Bluebell Meadow and the well-established Trimdon Community College Association, which shares the building.

Mr Nottingham said: “If there is one positive to come from Covid-19, it has strengthened the relationship between school, the parents/carers and the wider community.

“We have been there to offer unbelievable support throughout the pandemic, delivering hampers, providing meal vouchers, sourcing computer devices and data to allow children to work from home and, importantly, remained open throughout to allow vulnerable pupils and the children of key workers to attend school.

“When everyone talks about Bluebell, it is nice to hear the positivity and compliments.

"In a recent survey, 99% of parents would now recommend the school to others, having been just 36% 12 months ago.

“Anyone associated with the Trimdons will know the problems the school has had. This is only the start of the journey. We may not be there yet but we are well on our way.”

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